The European soccer championship is starting up again. It's been staged every four years since 1960, when the Soviet Union beat Yugoslavia in the final. You will note that both of those nations no longer exist.

One can trace the tournament's history even further back. Between 1927 and 1960, five editions of the Central European International Cup were held. The last one of those was won by Czechoslovakia. You will note that that nation no longer exists.

The CEIC was the brainchild of Hugo Meisl. He not only conceived the tournament, but also coached the Austrian national team from 1919 to 1937. Meisl led his squad to one CEIC title, as well as the semifinals of the 1934 World Cup. Prior to World War I, Meisl was in charge of the national team of Austria-Hungary. You will note that that nation no longer exists.

Even though his fame came with Austria, Meisl was born to a Jewish family in Bohemia. You will note...

Well, you get the point.