Argentine footballer Diego Maradona scored both the Hand of God goal and the Goal of the Century against England during the FIFA World Cup in Mexico City.

On June 22, 1986, legendary Argentine footballer Diego Maradona etched his name in history by scoring two iconic goals against England during the FIFA World Cup in Mexico City. These goals, known as the Hand of God goal and the Goal of the Century, continue to captivate football fans around the world.

The Argentine national team faced England in the quarter-finals of the tournament, and tensions were running high due to a historical context between the two nations. Just four years prior, England and Argentina had met in the Falklands War, a conflict that left deep wounds on both sides. This backdrop added an extra layer of intensity to the already highly-anticipated match.

In the 51st minute of the game, Maradona executed what is widely regarded as the Hand of God goal. As the ball was crossed into the penalty box, Maradona, standing at just 5 feet 5 inches, leaped above goalkeeper Peter Shilton and punched the ball into the net with his left hand. The goal was controversial as the referee failed to spot the infringement and it stood, much to England’s dismay. Maradona later described it as “a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.”

However, just four minutes later, Maradona showcased his extraordinary talent once again, this time with a goal that would go down in history as the Goal of the Century. Receiving the ball in his own half, Maradona embarked on a mesmerizing solo run, dribbling past five English players, including Shilton, before slotting the ball into the net. The goal left the world in awe, as Maradona demonstrated his exceptional skill, balance, and speed.

These two unforgettable goals not only propelled Argentina to a 2-1 victory and a place in the semi-finals but also secured Maradona’s place among footballing legends. The Hand of God goal, while controversial, showcased his cunning and adaptability, while the Goal of the Century highlighted his unmatched skill and agility.

Maradona’s performance in this match solidified his influence on the tournament and ultimately led Argentina to lift the World Cup trophy. His contribution to the game reached far beyond his iconic goals, as he played a pivotal role in Argentina’s journey to become champions.

The Hand of God goal and the Goal of the Century remain integral to football’s folklore. These moments continue to be discussed and dissected by fans, players, and analysts, showcasing their enduring impact on the sport. The goals symbolize Maradona’s exceptional talent and his ability to transcend the game, leaving an indelible mark in football history.

To this day, the Hand of God goal and the Goal of the Century serve as a reminder of Maradona’s remarkable skill, creativity, and impact on the world of football. They are a testament to his legacy as one of the greatest players to have ever graced the game.

As football fans look back on the events of June 22, 1986, the Hand of God goal and the Goal of the Century remain etched in their memories, forever serving as a testament to Maradona’s unparalleled genius on the field. These goals continue to inspire and captivate, ensuring that Maradona’s legacy lives on for generations to come.