“Hand of God” Argentine footballer Diego Maradona (left) scoring with his hand past English goalkeeper Peter Shilton. (more) Famous FIFA World Cup Goals: Maradona’s “Hand of God” Written by Tushaar Kuthiala Tushaar Kuthiala has over a decade of experience in news media, content creation, and digital marketing. Over the course of his career, Tushaar has written features and articles on sports, geopolitics,... Tushaar Kuthiala Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated June 2, 2026 •History This goal is arguably the most (in)famous in FIFA World Cup history. During the 1986 FIFA World Cup quarterfinal against England, legendary Argentine footballer Diego Maradona outjumped English goalkeeper Peter Shilton to score a goal with his hand, later claiming that the “hand of God” was partially responsible. “Un poco con la cabeza de Maradona y otro poco con la mano de Dios” (“A little with the head of Maradona and a little with the...

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