Throwback: Maradona's 'Hand of God' and 'Goal of the Century' records against England

As England and Argentina gear up for a highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final, the legendary performance of Diego Maradona against England in the 1986 tournament is once again at the forefront of football discussions. The quarter-final match in Mexico City's Estadio Azteca is etched in World Cup history, not just for Argentina's 2-1 victory en route to their title win, but for Maradona's two goals that continue to be celebrated and debated decades later.

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a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God

The first goal, scored in the 51st minute, became infamously known as the "Hand of God." While challenging England's goalkeeper Peter Shilton for a loose ball, Maradona punched it into the net with his left hand. The referee and linesman did not spot the infringement, allowing the goal despite protests from the English players. Maradona himself later described the goal as being scored "a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God," a phrase that cemented the moment's controversial status.

Officials involved in the match offered explanations for the controversial call. Referee Ali Bin Nasser stated that his view was blocked, as both Maradona and Shilton were facing away from him, and he relied on his assistant referee, Bogdan Dochev. Dochev, who has since passed away, later indicated that while he suspected an irregularity, FIFA regulations at the time prohibited assistant referees from discussing decisions with the main referee during play.

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The English defender had the ball, sent it back and Maradona was in the air with Peter Shilton, and they were both facing away from me. They were facing my assistant referee, the Bulgarian Bogdan Dochev. I was hesitant at first. I glanced over to Dochev, who was headed back to the centre of the pitch, confirming the goal. He didn’t signal for handball.

Maradona's brilliance was further showcased just four minutes later with what is widely regarded as the "Goal of the Century." After receiving the ball in his own half, he embarked on a mesmerizing solo run, dribbling past five England players before skillfully evading Shilton and calmly scoring. This moment of individual genius served to underscore Maradona's extraordinary talent and erase any lingering doubts about his capabilities.

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Although I felt immediately there was something irregular, back in that time FIFA didn’t allow the assistants to discuss the decisions with the referee.