The Totally Football Show with James Richardson Totally Extra: the rise and fall of Colombia in the 90s
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Sep 6, 2025 Felipe Cardenas, a journalist for The Athletic and CBS Sports, and Luis Miguel Echegaray, ESPN's South American football expert, dive into the rise and fall of Colombia in the '90s. They reminisce about the charismatic team featuring Carlos Valderrama and the unforgettable 5-0 win over Argentina. The conversation uncovers the dark backdrop of cartels and the tragic murder of Andres Escobar after a fateful own goal in 1994. Listeners gain insights into Colombia's vibrant football culture amidst societal turmoil and the haunting realities the players faced.
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Birth Of Toque Toque
- Colombia developed a distinct style called "el toque toque" focused on short touches and rondo-like play across the pitch.
- The team built from the back and kept possession, turning entertainment into their footballing brand.
Cartel Money Fueled Clubs
- Club football in Colombia in the late 80s was wealthy because cartel money flowed into teams like Atletico Nacional and America de Cali.
- Those resources helped Atletico Nacional win the 1989 Copa Libertadores and fuel the national teams rise.
Football As National Escape
- Despite violence and terror in 1989, Colombian football offered a national escape and pride for supporters.
- The national team's success provided a unifying contrast to the country's social turmoil.
