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Football

Maradona's 1986 Masterclass Against England

By SideLine Desk ·
Maradona's 1986 Masterclass Against England

Diego Maradona delivered a defining performance in the 1986 World Cup quarter-final, leading Argentina to a victory over England. His two goals proved decisive in the match.

The 1986 FIFA World Cup quarter-final saw Argentina face England, with Diego Maradona emerging as the undisputed star. The match, held at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, is etched in football history for the sheer individual brilliance displayed by the Argentine captain.

Maradona's impact was felt through two contrasting goals that ultimately settled the contest. The first, controversially awarded, saw the ball hit his hand and then the net, a moment that would later be famously referred to as the 'Hand of God'. This moment of audacity put Argentina ahead.

However, Maradona immediately followed this with a goal of unparalleled skill and artistry. Starting from his own half, he weaved past multiple English defenders with breathtaking pace and dribbling ability before rounding the goalkeeper and slotting the ball home. This solo effort is widely regarded as one of the greatest goals ever scored in the tournament's history.

💬 SideLine Take

Maradona's performance against England in '86 wasn't just a win, it was a statement of pure footballing genius that transcended controversy and cemented his legacy.

AI-assisted rewrite. This story was written by the SideLine Desk from the reporting below and reviewed by our editors — read the original for the full story. How we work.
Source: BBC Football

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