Relive Diego Maradona’s most controversial and legendary moments at the 1986 World Cup – the Hand of God and the Goal of the Century. A story that defines football history!

Diego Maradona’s Hand of God & Goal of the Century – 1986 World Cup

Few moments in football history are as unforgettable as Diego Maradona’s performance against England in the 1986 FIFA World Cup quarterfinals.

🔵⚪ June 22, 1986 – A day that would define Maradona’s legacy forever.

🔥 In a span of just four minutes, Maradona scored two goals that represented both the beauty and controversy of football.

⚽ The first goal was the infamous “Hand of God” – a clear handball that deceived the referee.
⚽ The second goal was the “Goal of the Century” – a breathtaking solo run past five England players.

This match was more than just football. It carried deep political significance, as it took place just four years after the Falklands War between Argentina and the UK.

Let’s take a deep dive into one of the most legendary games in World Cup history.

1. The Build-Up to the Match

📅 Date: June 22, 1986
📍 Venue: Estadio Azteca, Mexico City
⚽ Match: Argentina 🇦🇷 vs. England 🏴

Both teams had high expectations going into the quarterfinals.

✅ Argentina, led by Diego Maradona, had dominated the tournament and were considered strong contenders for the title.
✅ England, captained by Bryan Robson and featuring star striker Gary Lineker, were confident after beating Paraguay 3-0 in the Round of 16.

However, this was more than just a football match.

🔴 The Political Tension:

Just four years before the match, Argentina and the UK had fought the Falklands War over disputed islands in the South Atlantic.
This made the game feel like more than just a World Cup quarterfinal; it was seen as a battle of national pride.

📌 Emotions were high as both teams stepped onto the field.

2. The First Half: A Tactical Battle

⚽ The first 45 minutes were evenly contested, with both teams struggling to break the deadlock.

✅ Argentina dominated possession, with Maradona orchestrating the attack.
✅ England defended well, with Terry Butcher and Terry Fenwick marking Maradona closely.

📌 The match was tense, but no one could have predicted what would happen next.

3. The Hand of God – The Most Controversial Goal in History

📅 Minute 51′ – The moment of controversy

Argentina attacked England’s goal. Maradona played a one-two pass with Jorge Valdano, but England’s Steve Hodge accidentally lobbed the ball back toward his own goal.

🏃‍♂️ Maradona and England’s goalkeeper Peter Shilton both jumped for the ball.
✋ Instead of using his head, Maradona punched the ball into the net with his left hand!
🥅 GOAL! Argentina 1-0 England

The English players immediately protested, but the referee did not see the handball and allowed the goal to stand.

🔥 Maradona later called it the “Hand of God” – a phrase that would become legendary in football.

📌 England were furious, but the goal stood. Argentina had the lead.

4. The Goal of the Century – Maradona’s Genius

📅 Minute 55′ – Just four minutes after the Hand of God

Maradona picked up the ball inside his own half and began a run that would become the greatest goal in World Cup history.

🔥 He dribbled past five England players:
1️⃣ Peter Beardsley
2️⃣ Steve Hodge
3️⃣ Terry Butcher
4️⃣ Terry Fenwick
5️⃣ Peter Shilton (goalkeeper)

⚽ Maradona then slotted the ball into the net with his left foot!

📢 The commentator’s famous call:
“You have to say that is magnificent! Diego Maradona! A piece of football history!”

✅ This goal was later voted the “Goal of the Century” in a FIFA poll.

📌 It was a moment of pure football magic that showcased Maradona’s brilliance.

5. England’s Late Goal & The Final Whistle

🔴 Minute 80′ – England Pull One Back

Gary Lineker scored a header to make it 2-1, giving England hope.
Argentina defended desperately as England pushed for an equalizer.

📌 After 90 minutes of drama, the final whistle blew.

🏆 Argentina won 2-1 and advanced to the semifinals!

6. The Impact of This Match

📌 Maradona became a national hero in Argentina.

The Hand of God showed his cunning and street-smart mentality.
The Goal of the Century showed his pure talent and genius.
England never forgave him, but Argentina worshipped him.

📌 Political and Emotional Significance

For Argentina, this was revenge for the Falklands War.
For England, it was a painful loss, made worse by the controversial first goal.

📌 Maradona’s Legacy

This game defined Maradona’s career.
He led Argentina to win the 1986 World Cup, cementing his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

7. Where Are They Now?

🔹 Diego Maradona – Passed away in 2020, but remains an icon in world football.
🔹 Gary Lineker – Became a famous football pundit.
🔹 Peter Shilton – Still speaks about how Maradona “cheated” England.
🔹 Argentina and England – The rivalry continues, but this game remains the most iconic match between the two nations.

8. Why This Match Will Never Be Forgotten

✅ It had everything: controversy, brilliance, drama, and history.
✅ The Hand of God is the most infamous goal ever.
✅ The Goal of the Century is the most beautiful goal ever.
✅ It showcased Maradona’s genius – both the good and the bad.

📌 No other football match has ever had such a mix of controversy and magic.

9. Conclusion: Maradona’s Immortal Legacy

🔥 In just four minutes, Diego Maradona created football’s most unforgettable moments.

⚽ The Hand of God – A goal that angered England but delighted Argentina.
⚽ The Goal of the Century – A masterpiece that amazed the world.

🏆 This game proved why Maradona was a football god.

📢 Do you think this is the most legendary match in World Cup history? Let us know!

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