1986 World Cup Quarter-Final vs England
Two goals, one match, eternal rivalry: Maradona's hand and genius.
The Argentina v England quarter-final match of the 1986 FIFA World Cup was a football match played on 22 June 1986 between Argentina and England at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The match was held four years after the end of the Falklands War between Argentina and the United Kingdom, and was a key part of the already intense Argentina–England football rivalry. It was also a match which included two of the most well-known goals in football history, both scored by Argentina captain Diego Maradona.
Quick Facts
- Competition
- 1986 FIFA World Cup
- Stage
- Quarter-Final
- Venue
- Estadio Azteca, Mexico City
- Date
- June 22, 1986
- Final score
- Argentina 2 - 1 England
- Key figures
- Diego Maradona (Argentina), Peter Shilton (England)
- Historical context
- Post-Falklands War rivalry
Lore & Background
The first goal, referred to as the 'Hand of God' goal, was illegally scored by Maradona using his hand in the 51st minute. Four minutes later, Maradona dribbled past five England players to score what became known as the 'Goal of the Century'. Argentina won the match 2–1, and went on to win the tournament after defeating West Germany in the final. Maradona won the Golden Ball as the best player of the tournament. Gary Lineker, who scored England's goal against Argentina, won the Golden Boot for being the tournament's top scorer with six goals.
Reader's Guide
The match is remembered for two iconic goals by Diego Maradona. The 'Hand of God' goal was scored with his hand, which he later facetiously described as 'a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.' The 'Goal of the Century' saw Maradona dribble past five England players from his own half. The match was emotionally charged due to the Falklands War, and Maradona later called it 'symbolic revenge against the English.'
Did You Know?
- The 'Goal of the Century' was voted the best goal in FIFA World Cup history in a 2002 online poll.
- Argentina wore blue shirts bought from a shop in Mexico City days before the match, after coach Carlos Bilardo deemed their original shirts too heavy.
- Before the match, fans from both countries brawled in the streets and inside the stadium, with several English fans hospitalized.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the result and date of the 1986 World Cup Quarter-Final between Argentina and England?
Argentina defeated England 2-1 on June 22, 1986, at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. This quarter-final victory allowed Argentina to advance to the next stage of the tournament.
What are the famous goals Diego Maradona scored in this match?
Maradona scored both of Argentina's goals within a four-minute span, creating two iconic moments. The first involved a deliberate handball known as the 'Hand of God,' while the second featured a solo dribble past multiple English players celebrated as the 'Goal of the Century.'
Why does this match hold such significant historical importance?
The contest occurred only four years after the Falklands War, transforming the sporting event into a charged symbol of national pride and geopolitical tension. Argentina's win was widely perceived as a moment of redemption and defiance against their rivals on neutral ground.
Who was the key English player involved in the match?
Peter Shilton served as England's goalkeeper and was directly confronted by both of Maradona's historic strikes. Despite his efforts, he could not prevent the controversial handball or the skillful solo run that determined the outcome.
How did this match impact Argentina's overall World Cup campaign?
The 2-1 victory propelled Argentina into the semi-finals and established the momentum needed to eventually win the 1986 FIFA World Cup title. This result marked a pivotal turning point that cemented Maradona's legend and secured the trophy for his nation.
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