1986 World Cup Round of 16 Argentina v England
Maradona's hand and genius: the 1986 quarter-final that defined a rivalry.
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.
- England Captain
- Bryan Robson (injured, missed match)
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.
In Their Own Story
The humid air inside the Estadio Azteca was thick with tension, a palpable mix of anticipation and hostility. Gary Lineker had just equalized, silencing the crowd momentarily, but then Diego Maradona broke away. In that fleeting moment, time seemed to suspend as he dribbled past the entire English defense, a solitary figure weaving through giants before slotting the ball home.
Reader's Guide
The match is remembered for Maradona's two iconic goals. The 'Hand of God' goal was a handball that the referee allowed. The 'Goal of the Century' saw Maradona dribble past five England players. England's goal was scored by Gary Lineker. The match was emotionally charged due to the Falklands War four years earlier.
Did You Know?
- Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal was scored with his left hand, despite being 8 inches shorter than England goalkeeper Peter Shilton.
- The 'Goal of the Century' was voted the best goal in FIFA World Cup history in a 2002 poll.
- Argentina wore blue shirts bought in Mexico City days before the match, with makeshift AFA badges sewn on.
- Before the match, fans from both countries brawled in the streets and stadium, with some English fans hospitalized.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final result of the 1986 World Cup Round of 16 match between Argentina and England?
Argentina defeated England with a final score of 2–1 in this historic knockout fixture played at the Estadio Azteca. The victory eliminated the English side from the tournament while advancing Diego Maradona's team to the quarter-finals. This result remains one of the most memorable outcomes in international football history.
Who scored the goals during this controversial encounter?
Diego Maradona netted both Argentine goals, including the infamous "Hand of God" penalty and his solo "Goal of the Century". Gary Lineker scored England's equalizer shortly before halftime to briefly restore hope for the Three Lions. Ultimately, Maradona's second strike secured victory for Argentina in the dying moments.
Why is this match considered so important in football history?
It remains one of the most polarizing games ever played due to its blend of genius, controversy, and deep national rivalry. The clash occurred just four years after the Falklands War, adding significant emotional weight to the sporting contest. Maradona's performance cemented his legacy as a footballing icon while defining England's heartbreak in Mexico.
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