What Happened On June 22nd?
On June 22, 1986, during the FIFA World Cup quarterfinal match between Argentina and England, an incident occurred and became one of the sport’s most controversial moments. That day, Diego Maradona coined the phrase “Hand of God” after scoring a goal using his left hand, a move that would become legendary for both its audacity and the debates it ignited.
Diego Maradona was born on October 30, 1960, in Villa Fiorito, a shantytown on the southern outskirts of Buenos Aires. Despite his humble beginnings, his talent was evident from a young age. By 15, he made his professional debut with Argentinos Juniors, and by 16, he was playing for the national team.
Setting The Pitch
The match took place at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Tensions ran high as it was the first time Argentina and England faced each other on the field since the Falklands War, a conflict that had left deep scars. For both teams, the match was more than just a game; it carried the weight of national pride.
Diego Maradona, already a celebrated footballer, had been showcasing his extraordinary skills throughout the tournament. As the captain of the Argentine team, much was expected from him. England, on the other hand, was determined to advance further in the World Cup, driven by a fierce competitive spirit and the memories of the recent war.
The Hand Of God
The first goal of the match came in the 51st minute. Maradona, always the opportunist, seized on a poorly cleared ball by the English defense. Charging towards the goal, he leaped alongside England’s goalkeeper, Peter Shilton. In a split second, Maradona used his left hand to punch the ball into the net. The referees, either unable to see the handball or choosing to ignore it, allowed the goal to stand.
After the match, Maradona famously quipped, “It was partly the hand of Maradona and partly the hand of God,” thus coining the term “Hand of God.”
The Goal Of The Century
Just four minutes after the controversial goal, Maradona scored what later became known as the “Goal of the Century.” Picking up the ball in his own half, he began a mesmerizing run, dribbling past five English players before slotting the ball into the net. This goal showcased his extraordinary talent and reinforced his status as one of football’s greatest players.
The Final Whistle
The match ended 2-1 in favor of Argentina, securing their place in the semi-finals. The “Hand of God” goal immediately sparked outrage and debate. English fans and players felt cheated, while Argentine supporters celebrated Maradona’s cunning and brilliance.
Before the 1986 World Cup, Maradona had already participated in the 1982 tournament. However, it was in 1986 that he truly shined, scoring five goals and making five assists throughout the tournament, making him the undisputed star of the event.
More Of Maradona
The “Hand of God” wasn’t Maradona’s only controversial moment. Throughout his career, he had several run-ins with authorities and faced criticism for drugs and lifestyle choices. Yet, his on-field performances often overshadowed these controversies, keeping fans enamored with his talent.
Despite his successes, Maradona’s also faced health issues. His struggles with addiction and weight problems were well-documented. In 2004, he suffered a heart attack due to cocaine use, which led to his commitment to rehabilitation.
What Next?
The “Hand of God” incident remained a major talking point in football history. Maradona’s clever play and the subsequent uproar it caused continued to be analyzed and discussed by fans, players, and historians alike. It vividly exemplified how one moment could influence perceptions of a player.
Maradona’s actions that day in 1986 led to debates over fairness, sportsmanship, and the role of referees in major tournaments. The incident became a staple in discussions about World Cup history and is frequently cited in arguments about the need for better officiating and technology in the sport.
In his later years, Maradona often spoke about the 1986 World Cup and the infamous goal. He acknowledged the controversy but always maintained a sense of pride in his actions. “That day, something magical happened,” he once said. “It was as if I could feel the entire nation of Argentina with me. We needed a miracle, and somehow, we got one.”
