“The Hand Of God” Soccer Match

Argentina Vs England

In June 22nd, 1986 Argentina and England played on the quarter finals of the FIFA-World Cup. The match took place at the Estadio Azteca of Mexico City. Argentina and England already had a history of rivalry and incidents. This match took place just four years after the Falklands War which was a ten-week war between the two countries. This added to the tension between the two soccer teams. Just before the 1986 game, fans from both countries had a fight on the street and into the stadium. Several fans had to be hospitalized. The game started and at half time despite multiple efforts the game remained 0-0. During the second half two incidents would forever mark this game as infamous and famous.

“The Hand Of God”

It was during the second half and six minutes into the game that the first infamous goal scored by Diego Maradona would forever be known as “The Hand Of God”. Maradona jumped to score the goal with his head but ended up hitting it with his hand. The goal was not penalized and England players were furious. During the post game conference Maradona stated that the goal was scored “a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.” England felt that they were cheated out of a highly possible World Cup Victory. The goal further intensified rivalry between Argentina and England. Take a look at the play with the original commentary of world famous narrator Victor Hugo Morales.

“The Goal Of The Century”

Four minutes after the infamous goal came “The Goal Of The Century” also scored by Maradona. It earned the name since it is claimed to be the greatest individual goal of all time. He ran 60 yards within 10 seconds towards the English goal. Along the way he passed four English outfield players. Maradona finished the goal with a feint that left the goalkeeper Peter Shilton completely on his backside before he scored. Maradona would go on to say that he couldn’t have done that play against any other team because they would have knocked him down. He complimented the English team for being “the noblest in the world”. Here is the amazing goal also with the original commentary of Victor Hugo Morales.

https://youtu.be/3pnSvfHiUqk

After The Match

Argentina won the match 2-0 against England and eventually winning the World Cup against West Germany. Maradona won the golden ball for player of the tournament. Even though his first goal was highly controversial his second goal could not be denied. This goal would have won Argentina the game anyway. Since this match the two countries have met twice in World Cup matches.