Blood on the Crossbar

Blood on the Crossbar: The Dictatorship's World Cup by Rhys Richards is a gripping exploration of one of football's most controversial tournaments—the 1978 World Cup held in Argentina. Published by Pitch Publishing Ltd in 2022, this hardback edition spans 304 pages and delves into the dark undercurrents of a nation in turmoil. During a brutal military dictatorship, thousands of citizens mysteriously 'disappeared,' while mothers took to the streets in protest, demanding justice. The national football team's triumph became a tool for the regime, overshadowing the struggles of the Argentine people. Rhys Richards masterfully intertwines the passion for football with the harsh realities of political oppression, making this book a must-read for sports enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Discover the untold stories behind the glory and the shadows that lingered over this pivotal moment in sports history.