The world is still reeling in the shock of Diego Maradona’s death and fans from all across the world have returned to the famous ‘hand of god’ moment that immortalised the iconic Argentinian footballer.
Pele pens heartfelt tribute to Maradona
The 60-year-old, as we understand it, passed away shortly after a heart attack. The footballer’s death came a couple of weeks after he had undergone a successful brain blood clot operation.
Across the world, news of the 1986 FIFA World Cup winner’s passing was felt. His long-time competitor Pele penned a heartfelt message to Maradona, which read:
"I have lost a dear friend, and the world has lost a legend. One day, I hope, we will play soccer together in the sky."
— B/R Football (@brfootball) November 25, 2020
️ Pele on Diego Maradona pic.twitter.com/ToG4IpJURv
The moment Maradona inspired a generation
Maradona was gifted with his feet, as an attacking midfielder. His style of play has inspired, in many ways, the tiki-taka football that’s synonymous with Barcelona’s philosophy.
Even veteran footballers like Ronaldinho, Lionel Messi and Zenadine Zidane can attest to Maradona’s way of playing as an influence in their own attributes.
We have seen wonders from the Argentinian midfielder, both on and off the field. Perhaps, the one true moment of immortality came when he headed the ball in the back of the net with his hand, spurring the legendary and unorthodox ‘hand of god’ goal style that has only been mimicked a handful of times.
Watch: The ‘hand of god’ moment
The goal came against England in the 1986 FIFA World Cup that Argentina went on to lift.
You can watch the footage below: