World Cup 1986: When Maradona lit up the world of football

With reputation of the match rising globally, the variety of groups vying for a spot in the principle draw elevated to 121.

Argentina defeated West Germany 3-2 to elevate the World Cup trophy [Carlo Fumagalli/AP Photo]

Host: Mexico
Groups: 24
Format: Group stage, knockouts
Matches: 52
Targets: 132
Winner: Argentina
Runners-up: West Germany
Golden Boot: Gary Lineker (England)

Background

Mexico turned the primary nation to host the World Cup twice after Colombia, initially picked to host the match, pulled out 4 years earlier than the match as a result of monetary causes.

Canada, USA and Mexico put their names ahead as substitute hosts and Mexico was chosen by the FIFA government council.

With the recognition of the match rising globally, the variety of groups vying for a spot in the principle draw elevated to 121. Africa and Asia got two spots every, whereas Europe had 14 and South America 4.

Canada, Denmark and Iraq made their World Cup debuts.

Maradona, 25, led his aspect and performed each minute of their World Cup journey, scoring 5 targets and offering 5 assists.

Denmark made a surprising debut, successful all their group video games however had been knocked out within the second spherical by Spain.

Holders Italy had been additionally knocked out within the second spherical by France.

France, Belgium and Mexico proceeded to the quarterfinals with penalty shootout wins. The fourth quarterfinal between Argentina and England was determined in regular time however with no much less pleasure. Maradona scored the primary purpose, an obvious header which might later prove to have touched his hand and termed the “Hand of God” purpose.

The second, voted the purpose of the century on FIFA web site in 2002, noticed Maradona make a run from his personal half and beat 5 England gamers earlier than beguiling the goalkeeper. The match got here on the again of the 1982 Falklands Battle between the 2 nations.

Argentina met West Germany within the closing, and appeared set for a win with a 2-0 lead when the Germans made a trademark comeback. Six minutes from time, Maradona created the right alternative for Jorge Burruchaga, who duly transformed to offer Argentina their second World Cup title.

Highs

Maradona’s mesmerising efficiency.

Debuts for Canada, Denmark and Iraq.

Delivery of the Mexican wave.

Lows

Controversy over host choice.