7M - Maradona 1986: History's Greatest World Cup Run

The 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico showcased what many consider the most commanding individual performance in tournament history. Diego Maradona arrived as Argentina's key player under coach Carlos Bilardo, though the squad faced skepticism after losses to France and Norway during preparation. A shift occurred in the final friendly against Israel, where Maradona scored twice, signaling the emergence of something extraordinary.

Argentina began against South Korea at Estadio Olimpico Universitario. Maradona was fouled twelve times yet provided three assists in a 3-1 victory. Versus defending champions Italy, he scored a stunning equalizer in the 34th minute from an extremely narrow angle. Against Bulgaria, he directed play and set up Jorge Burruchaga for a goal.

In the Round of 16 versus Uruguay, Maradona endured ten additional fouls and nearly scored from a free kick that struck the post. Argentina advanced with a 1-0 result.

The quarterfinal against England on June 22, 1986, at Estadio Azteca became iconic. Maradona first scored using his left hand, later known as the Hand of God. Minutes later, he collected the ball near midfield, dribbled past five English defenders, and finished precisely for what many regard as the greatest goal ever recorded.

In the semifinal versus Belgium, he scored both goals in a 2-0 victory. The final against West Germany saw Argentina lead 2-0 before the Germans equalized. Maradona then delivered the decisive assist to Burruchaga for the championship-winning goal.

Across seven matches, Maradona recorded five goals and five assists, the only player in World Cup history to reach those marks in a single tournament. He was directly involved in 71 percent of Argentina's goals and created nearly 18 clear scoring opportunities throughout the competition.