"A well-researched and well-written book on the country, its history, politics, nationalism and, ultimately, on football." -- European History Quarterly "An exciting read . The depth and quality of the scholarship shine through, making this book an important contribution and, hopefully, part of an ongoing dialogue with scholars based in different regional academic traditions." -- Journal of the Historical Association "Scrupulously researched and draws on a dazzling array of archival sources and marginal publications . This highly original study undeniably makes a valuable and scholarly contribution to our understanding of Yugoslav history, and a thoughtful and convincing case for the continued examination of the overt and covert means by which sport is politicized." -- Slavonic and East European Review "Admirably researched in archives throughout the former Yugoslavia, in dozens of periodicals, and in numerous memoirs, this book provides novel and thought-provoking insight into the intersection of state power, national/ethnic identity, and leisure activites. Summing up: recommended." -- CHOICE "Well-written .

a rich monograph that marks a milestone in football research . a valuable foundation given to the facts, perspectives and suggestions as well as material for expansion, deepening and reorientation." -- H-Soz-Kult (Bloomsbury translation) "Enriched with vignettes, literary descriptions of sceneries and stadiums and personal impressions, and depicting legacies and leftovers of the Yugoslav past across the post-Yugoslav space, Richard Mills takes us to a fascinating journey through the world of the not always beautiful game. This long-awaited monograph is a brilliantly written and in-depth historical analysis based on the diversity of primary and secondary sources and, as such, it fulfils all expectations." -- Reviews in History.