Argentine phenom Diego Maradona’s unforgettable display in 1986 was one of the most extraordinary performances in World Cup history. So much so, that Maradona managed two of the most famous goals in the sport’s history in the same tournament. In the same game, against the same team: mighty England.
A retired Maradona watches World Cup play in 2006 | via Wikimedia
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It was the quarter-finals of the 1986 FIFA World Cup, held in Mexico. The match was between two footballing giants: Argentina vs. England. But those weren’t the only giants on the field that day. The other giant was Diego Maradona. While only 5′ 5″, the Golden Boy towered over the tournament and history by the final whistle.
We have to start with the infamous “Hand of God” goal – the first of two of the most famous goals in World Cup lore. In the 51st minute, Maradona went up for a volley against a hard-charging Peter Shilton, England’s goalkeeper. But instead of placing a polite header, Maradona’s hand also deflected the ball into the net – and no penalty was ever called.
Maradona later described it as “a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.” In the end, it became part of footballing folklore – the most controversial goal in World Cup history.
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The Goal of the Century
But Maradona wasn’t content with just one of the most famous goals in history. Just four minutes after the “Hand of God” incident, he treated us to what has since been dubbed the “Goal of the Century.”
Starting near midfield, Maradona unleashed a mesmerizing solo run that left the entire English defense in his wake. Dribbling past five defenders, he showcased his incredible balance, speed, and close ball control. It looked for all the world like Maradona was moving along tracks. The coup de grâce was his deke of keeper Peter Shilton, which gave him just enough room for a clean tap into the net.
Argentina won the match 2-1 on their way to World Cup glory. Maradona was awarded the Golden Ball, and his performance against England in 1986 is often regarded as one of the greatest individual displays in World Cup history.
Diego Maradona’s magical display in that quarter-final match against England is etched into the collective memory of fans worldwide and known to every little boy who laces up his boots dreaming of glory.
Fans eagerly look forward to the goal of this new century!
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