How a controversial handball became the most famous goal in football history
In short: During the 1986 World Cup quarterfinal, Diego Maradona scored a goal that changed football forever. By using his hand to outmaneuver England's goalkeeper, he sparked a global debate that persists decades later, famously describing the illegal strike as a divine intervention.
The incident occurred during Argentina's quarterfinal match against England at the 1986 FIFA World Cup. As the ball was kicked toward the goal by English midfielder Steve Hodge, Diego Maradona jumped to contest the ball against goalkeeper Peter Shilton. Despite Shilton being 20 centimetres taller, Maradona used his left arm to strike the ball, looping it over the keeper and into the net. The ball had been deflected toward the goal by Hodge after it was intercepted during a passing sequence. Maradona's fist was raised near his head as he struck the ball.
The goal was initially awarded by Tunisian referee Ali Ben Nasser, though the English players immediately protested. After consulting with his linesman, the referee allowed the goal to stand. Maradona later explained the moment by suggesting it was scored partly with his head and partly through divine assistance. This controversial strike gave Argentina a 1–0 lead, and they eventually won the match 2–1 to secure their second World Cup title. The Tunisian official sought advice from the second linesman before confirming the goal. This victory helped Argentina eventually secure their second World Cup trophy.
Maradona's justification for the move was deeply personal; he later described the goal as a form of symbolic retribution for Argentina's loss in the 1982 Falklands War. While he admitted to the handball years later on the program La Noche del 10 in 2005, the moment remains a defining piece of sporting lore. The significance of the match is underscored by the fact that the ball used in the game sold at auction for $3.3 million in August 2026. The player's confession occurred during an appearance on the Argentinean television show La Noche del 10. Meanwhile, Peter Shilton has dismissed the apology as being far too late.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Famous FIFA World Cup Goals: ‘Hand of God’ | 1986, Diego Maradona, Football, 2026, Soccer, Infamous, & Handball | Britannica
- Also: The hand of God
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