Mexico 1986

The Hand of God

World cup. Quarter finals. England - Argentina. Second half. The score is 0-0. 50 minutes into the game, the small Argentinian leaps up on a sloppy return by defender Kenny Samson and hits the ball with his fist. It rolls into the goal. The referee allows it. Maradona later describes it as "The had of God." The English are furious but the game goes on.

If Diego felt bad about the first goal, he had no reason to do so about what was to happen four minutes later. Starting in the middle of his own half, he overtakes Peter Beardsly, Peter Reid, Terry Butcher, Terry Fenwick, Gary Stevens and Shilton before his divine left foot puts the ball in the net. After what must be soccers most miraculous moment, only the English are still concerned about the first goal.