How Argentina Won the 1986 World Cup: Diego Maradona's Genius
An analysis of Argentina's 1986 World Cup triumph, defined by one of the greatest individual performances in football history by Diego Maradona.
The 1986 World Cup in Mexico became the tournament of one player. The Argentina national team claimed their second title, but the success will forever be remembered for the incredible performance of Diego Maradona.
Head coach Carlos Bilardo built a pragmatic side focused on defensive structure, while granting Maradona absolute freedom. Using a 3-5-2 system, the manager created a perfect platform for his captain. As forward Jorge Valdano recalled, for Bilardo, football was a military campaign where every player had to fight for the result.
The turning point was the quarter-final against England. Charged with political tension from the Falklands War, the match produced two iconic moments: the controversial Hand of God and the Goal of the Century, where Diego dribbled past half the English team.
In the final against West Germany, Argentina controlled the match but almost surrendered a 2-0 lead late on. However, it was Maradona’s precise through ball to Jorge Burruchaga in the 84th minute that settled the dramatic contest, securing the nation's second world title.