The history of the World Cup can be seen before and after the 1986 game between England and Argentina, starring Diego Maradona. This game didn’t change football’s rules but showcased everything possible in the sport in a few minutes, all by one man.
Argentina’s 2-1 win over England on June 22, 1986, is remembered for Maradona’s two iconic moments. His “Hand of God” goal, unseen by the referee, and the “Goal of the Century” exemplified both the controversial and the brilliant in football.
Let’s look back at his infamous goals in the 1986 World Cup, one of the most memorable moments in sports history.
Setting the Stage
The 1986 FIFA World Cup was hosted by Mexico, featuring 24 teams from around the world. It was the 13th edition of the tournament and saw some of the most memorable moments in football history.
Argentina, led by the legendary Diego Maradona, emerged as a strong contender, showcasing exceptional skill and strategy throughout the competition. The quarter-final match between Argentina and England became particularly notable, not just for its on-field drama but also for its off-field implications.
The match carried deep political undertones due to the Falklands War between Argentina and the UK in 1982. This conflict created a backdrop of tension, adding intensity to the game.
The Infamous Goal
In the 1986 World Cup quarter-final, Argentina faced England in a tense match. The first half ended goalless, but everything changed in the 51st minute.
Maradona, weaving through England’s defense, passed to Valdano. The ball was intercepted by Steve Hodge, who tried to clear it but accidentally sent it toward his own goal.
Maradona continued his run, and as England’s goalkeeper Peter Shilton came out to clear the ball. Maradona, despite being 8 inches shorter, reached it first. He used his left hand to punch the ball into the net. The referee, Ali Bin Nasser, did not see the handball and allowed the goal.
Maradona famously called it “a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.” This controversial goal intensified the Argentina-England rivalry and became legendary.
This goal, known as the “Hand of God,” added to the football rivalry between Argentina and England. Many English fans felt cheated out of a World Cup victory, while Argentines celebrated the clever play.
The goal was illegal under football rules, as Maradona used his hand, but the referees did not see it clearly. The goal gave Argentina a 1–0 lead, and they went on to win 2–1, with Maradona scoring another goal, later named the “Goal of the Century.”
Maradona later acknowledged he had handled the ball, describing the goal as “symbolic revenge” for the UK’s victory over Argentina in the Falklands War four years earlier. This moment immortalized Maradona in football history, showcasing both his brilliance and his cunning.
The 1986 World Cup quarter-final in Mexico City remains one of the most memorable matches in football history. This event deepened the football rivalry between the nations and became a defining moment in World Cup history.
The Goal of the Century
Just four minutes after the “Hand of God” goal, Maradona scored again. This time, he went on a 60-yard run from midfield, dribbling past six English players and ending with a feint that left goalkeeper Peter Shilton on the ground. He then slotted the ball into the net. This goal has since been called the “Goal of the Century.”
Maradona later described the play, saying, “I made the play to give it to (Jorge) Valdano, but when I got to the area, they surrounded me, and I had no space. Therefore, I had to continue the play and finish it myself.”
He also praised the English team for their fair play, saying, “I don’t think I could have done it against any other team because they all used to knock you down; they are probably the noblest in the world.”
These two goals, scored in the same match, are celebrated as miraculous moments in football history. They showcased Maradona’s unparalleled skill and impact on the sport. Dutch filmmaker and football writer Joe de Putter once described the “Goal of the Century” as the only miracle of the 20th Century.
The 1986 World Cup quarter-final in Mexico City remains one of the most memorable matches in football history, highlighted by Maradona’s controversial and ingenious play. The goals not only defined Maradona’s career but also left a lasting impact on international football.
Immediate Reactions
After Maradona’s controversial goal, reactions were immediate and intense. The English players and coaching staff were outraged, feeling cheated by the referee’s failure to see the handball.
Argentine players, while surprised, quickly celebrated the unexpected advantage. Fans in the stadium and around the world had mixed reactions; Argentines rejoiced, while English supporters felt a deep sense of injustice. The emotional responses added fuel to the already heated rivalry between the two nations.
The media coverage of the “Hand of God” goal was extensive and polarized. English newspapers condemned the goal as blatant cheating, criticizing both Maradona and the officiating. Headlines often reflected the sense of betrayal felt by English fans and players.
In contrast, Argentine media hailed Maradona’s ingenuity and praised his ability to capitalize on the situation. The public opinion mirrored these sentiments, with debates about sportsmanship and fairness dominating discussions.
Historical and Cultural Impact
The “Hand of God” goal significantly intensified the football rivalry between Argentina and England.
The controversial nature of the goal, coupled with the recent memory of the Falklands War, made the match more than just a sporting event. It symbolized national pride and historical grievances, adding a deeper layer of tension and competition between the two countries.
The match and the goal are considered pivotal moments in World Cup history. This goal remains one of the most talked-about incidents in football, often cited in discussions about sportsmanship and fairness.
Diego Maradona’s controversial “Hand of God” and subsequent “Goal of the Century” solidified his status as a football legend. His ability to execute such a controversial goal and then follow it up with a display of unmatched skill demonstrated his unique talent and audacity.
Maradona’s performance in this match is seen as the pinnacle of his career, making him an enduring icon in the world of football.