Jorge Valdano Reflects on Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ Goal Ahead of Argentina-England World Cup Clash

Jorge Valdano, Argentina’s 1986 World Cup striker, revisited the iconic quarterfinal match against England ahead of their 2022 World Cup semifinal meeting. Valdano highlighted the unique historical context of the 1986 game, played just four years after the Falklands War, describing it as a match that represented a nation’s wounds, unlike the current game which is viewed mainly through a football lens. He recalled the intense social pressure on Argentine players at the time, though he noted the tension was more social than political.

Valdano praised Diego Maradona’s legendary performance in that match, which included the infamous “Hand of God” goal and the “Goal of the Century.” He shared a personal anecdote about asking Maradona on the pitch if he had scored with his hand, to which Maradona replied enigmatically, “I’ll tell you later.” Valdano described Maradona’s artistry as unmatched, reflecting Argentine traits of cunning and virtuosity.

Comparing football then and now, Valdano observed that players in his era enjoyed more freedom, whereas modern football is highly tactical and analyzed. However, he singled out Lionel Messi as a player who defies even the most advanced analysis, calling him a mesmerizing figure who has enriched football’s history over the past two decades.

Looking ahead to the 2022 semifinal, Valdano acknowledged the historical and football significance of the match. He noted England’s emergence of a new scorer in Jude Bellingham, while Argentina still relies heavily on Messi, with Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez providing additional momentum. Valdano’s reflections underscore the enduring legacy of the 1986 match and the evolving nature of football rivalry between Argentina and England.