VIDEO 40 years ago the myth was born: chaos, the Falklands and Maradona in an epic clash of Argentina and England

Forty years after one of football's most storied encounters, Argentina and England are once again poised to clash in a World Cup semi-final. The upcoming match evokes powerful memories of their 1986 quarter-final in Mexico City, a game forever etched in football lore due to its dramatic twists and profound historical context.

That fateful match at the Azteca Stadium, held just four years after the Falklands War, was charged with more than just sporting rivalry. Political tensions between Argentina and Great Britain amplified the emotions on the field and in the stands, transforming the game into a symbol of national pride and historical grievances. The encounter is inseparable from the legend of Diego Maradona, who single-handedly dominated the second half.

Maradona first scored the infamous "Hand of God" goal, a handball that deceived English goalkeeper Peter Shilton. Minutes later, he produced a moment of sheer brilliance, weaving through nearly the entire English defense to score what is widely regarded as one of the greatest goals in World Cup history. Despite Gary Lineker pulling one back for England, Argentina secured a 2-1 victory, ultimately going on to win the tournament.

The 1986 game transcended sport, influencing even economic discourse, with former Bank of England Governor Mervyn King referencing "The Maradona theory of interest rates." Beyond the pitch, the atmosphere among fans reflected the deep-seated animosity stemming from the Falklands conflict. Images from the stands and surrounding streets captured the intense emotions that accompanied this fixture, cementing its status as one of the most passionate rivalries in global football. As Argentina and England prepare to meet again, the echoes of that historic clash continue to resonate.

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This goal by "Diego" against the English transcended all known borders. It even reached economics under the title: "The Maradona theory of interest rates" by Mervyn King, President of the Bank of England. Thus Maradona gave us an example of how to conduct policy…