The "Hand of God" goal was scored by Argentine footballer Diego Maradona during the Argentina v England quarter-final match of the 1986 FIFA World Cup. The goal was illegal under association football rules because Maradona used his hand to score, but because the referees did not have a clear view of the play it stood to give Argentina a 1–0 lead. Argentina went on to win 2–1, with Maradona scoring a second goal known as the "Goal of the Century," en route to claiming the World Cup.

The goal is widely regarded as one of the most controversial moments in football history. Some people believe that Maradona was a cheat who should have been punished for handball, while others believe that he was a genius who got away with something special.

There is no doubt that the "Hand of God" goal is one of the most iconic moments in football history. It is a goal that has been debated and discussed for decades, and it is one that will continue to be remembered for many years to come.

The context of the goal

The match between Argentina and England was a highly anticipated one, as it was the first time the two teams had met since the Falklands War four years earlier. The match was also played against the backdrop of political tension between the two countries.

Argentina went into the match as favorites, as they had a strong team led by Maradona. England were also a good team, but they were without their star player, Kevin Keegan, who was injured.

The goal

The "Hand of God" goal was scored in the 51st minute of the match. Maradona received the ball in midfield and dribbled past several English players. He then chipped the ball over the head of English goalkeeper Peter Shilton and into the goal.

Replays of the goal showed that Maradona had used his hand to knock the ball into the goal. However, the referee, Ali Bennaceur of Tunisia, did not see the handball and the goal was allowed to stand.

The reaction

The English players were furious when they saw that the goal had been allowed to stand. They protested to the referee, but he refused to change his decision.

The Argentine players and fans celebrated the goal wildly. They knew that it was a controversial goal, but they didn't care. They were just happy to be ahead.

The aftermath

Argentina went on to win the match 2–1, and they eventually won the World Cup. Maradona became a national hero in Argentina, and he is still considered to be one of the greatest footballers of all time.

The "Hand of God" goal remains one of the most controversial moments in football history. It is a goal that has been debated and discussed for decades, and it is one that will continue to be remembered for many years to come.

To wrap up

The "Hand of God" goal is a complex and controversial moment in football history. It is a goal that has been debated and discussed for decades, and it is one that will continue to be remembered for many years to come.

The goal is controversial because it was scored illegally. However, it is also iconic because it was scored by one of the greatest footballers of all time. The goal is a reminder of the power of football to evoke strong emotions, both positive and negative.