Diego Maradona scored two of the most famous goals in soccer history 40 years ago at the 1986 World Cup.

What happened?

The match between Argentina and England was played at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, with Argentina winning the quarterfinals.
The game was marked by a growing sporting rivalry between the two teams, with the Three Lions and La Albiceleste viewed as leading contenders for the title.
Argentina topped its group despite being held to a draw by Italy and then edging past Uruguay in the Round of 16 thanks to a goal from Pedro Pasculli.

The Hand of God

Maradona's first goal, the Hand of God, came when he punched the ball past Peter Shilton while challenging for it in the air, with Tunisian referee Ali Bin Nasser not spotting the infringement.
The image of that leap has since become one of the most famous and commercially reproduced moments in the sport.

The Goal of the Century

Maradona struck again, scoring what would later be known as the Goal of the Century, picking up the ball near midfield and dribbling past four English defenders before finding the net.
The match produced some of the most enduring images in soccer history, with Rising above them all was Maradona, who delivered a legendary performance.
And the game kicked off at noon local time in Mexico City, with the blazing sun casting shadows that remain etched in the memories of television viewers.
But the match was more than just a game, with the two nations having been on opposite sides of the Falklands War just two years earlier.
So the stakes were high, with Argentina and England both looking to advance to the semifinals.
The England team, led by Gary Lineker, arrived full of confidence after their star striker scored a hat trick against Poland and followed it with a brace in a victory over Paraguay.

Legacy

Maradona's performance that day cemented his legacy in soccer history, with the two goals becoming part of soccer folklore.
As of June 22, 2023, the 1986 World Cup match between Argentina and England remains one of the most iconic matches in soccer history.
And Maradona's goals continue to be celebrated by soccer fans around the world.
But the match was also marked by controversy, with the Hand of God goal remaining a topic of debate among soccer fans.
So the legacy of the match continues to be felt, with Maradona's performance remaining an inspiration to soccer players around the world.
The match was played on June 22, 1986, and it will always be remembered as one of the greatest matches in soccer history.