Galeano separates the ecosystem of soccer into sections and dissects the sport from each position in the game. The exploration of each roles of the player, goalkeeper, the  idol , the fan, the fanatic, the goal, etc. The explanation of the referee is done well and suggests how the job requires to run the entire game. And, how the position requires to be free of shame or discrimination against any one team. Then goes on to say that in Spanish the name for the referee is translated to arbitrary. I found this cheeky and light hearted, like much of the text. Another point that stood out for me was in the comparison of manager and trainer. Where the manager says are you ready to win? And, the trainer/or specialist asks if you are ready to play? Suggesting the differing perspectives and considerations each player has to have amongst playing in a professional soccer league. Galeano explains how entry into professional soccer leagues is partially being good at the sport but then also luck. Going on to say how important soccer is too many people at a very fundamental level and even suggesting religious and spiritual union with the spirit of soccer. Saying that even the feet are compelled by the spirit and encourage the players moves. What is interesting in this text is the outlining of soccer from not only a sports perspective but the implications on society, religion and politics. We learn that soccer as a sport was invented in China. It isn’t clear whether soccer was brought to Latin America or if it’s something that has always been present.

The historical variations that soccer has morphed and changed is seen in Egypt, Japan, Scotland, England and Latin America. Galeano also mentions the first published mentions in popular culture through theatre.  The mention of racism briefly in the discrimination against two people of colour in one team was unfortunate to hear. However, this kind of disqualification has been called in other places in sports. For example, in the All Native Basketball Tournament with the call to question in someones mixed nationhood on an all indigenous basketball team. This kind of disqualification is unfortunate and ostracizing  to those players in question. In conclusion, throughout each section of the text you begin to understand more deeply how the sport is revered and held within these communities. In addition to historical importance for the sport worldwide.