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Review discusses Uruguay's rise in football from 1918 to 1930

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 8, 2026, 11:20 AM

Last updated Aug 8, 2026

Review discusses Uruguay's rise in football from 1918 to 1930

Summary

The book 'Uruguay: Football’s First Global Power 1918-1930' explores how Uruguay emerged as a footballing powerhouse after winning two continental titles. Author Martin da Cruz tracks the nation’s journey towards global recognition, beginning with their first Olympic title in Paris in 1924. The narrative highlights key players like José Nasazzi and José Leandro Andrade, as well as challenges like funding trips to Europe. The book concludes with Uruguay hosting the inaugural World Cup in 1930, despite initial attendance issues from European teams.

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By the Numbers

•Uruguay wins two continental titles before the 1924 Olympics.
•Funding efforts included a pre-Olympic European tour.
•Key players featured are José Nasazzi and José Leandro Andrade.
•Uruguay hosts the first World Cup in 1930 under challenging circumstances.
•The book provides insight into the socio-political context of the era.

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11:20 AMYahoo Sports — Book Review – Uruguay: Football’s First Global Power 1918-1930

What they're saying

"
As increased popularity and professionalism saw football start to outgrow the Olympic Games in the 1920s, momentum gathered for the sport to have a dedicated competition of it own. Football was about ...
— Yahoo Sports

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