The controversial Hand of God episode from the 1986 FIFA World Cup

One of the most debated moments in football history occurred on June 22, 1986, during the FIFA World Cup quarter-final between Argentina and England at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. And now, it is also possible to place a sports bet Zambia at the 1xBet platform too.

The incident, forever known as the “Hand of God,” involved Argentine captain Diego Maradona scoring a goal with his left hand. Although the action clearly violated the rules of football, neither the referee nor the assistant referee detected the handball, and the goal was allowed to stand. With 1xBet Zambia you may also place a sports bet on matches of the Argentinian national team too.

An action that went completely unnoticed

The controversy began in the 51st minute of the match. Following a deflected ball, Maradona challenged England goalkeeper Peter Shilton in the penalty area. Despite being much shorter than Shilton, Maradona reached the ball first by subtly punching it into the net with his left hand while appearing to head it. You are always invited to try Aviator bet Zambia at 1xBet before another match between England and Argentina too.

England’s players immediately protested, but Tunisian referee Ali Bennaceur upheld the goal because neither he nor his assistant had seen the infringement. In today’s game, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system would almost certainly have overturned the decision. With 1xBet Zambia, you may also try an Aviator bet besides amazing football wagers too.

The goal of the century

After the match, Maradona famously described the goal as being scored “a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God”. This remark gave the incident its enduring nickname. Prior to other bizarre football goals being…