Jeff Powell MBE, a journalist who covered Argentinian football for decades, has recounted a personal conversation with Diego Maradona where the legendary player discussed his controversial "Hand of God" goal against England in the 1986 World Cup.
Powell shared the anecdote in the context of his experiences with Argentinian football, including witnessing Argentina's 1978 World Cup victory and meeting a teenage Maradona shortly after. He described being invited by Argentina's manager, Cesar Luis Menotti, to join the team's celebrations in Buenos Aires following their first World Cup title. During the festivities, Menotti introduced Powell to a young Maradona, then just 17, whom he described as "our future."
A Controversial Goal and a Personal Admission
The infamous "Hand of God" incident occurred during the 1986 World Cup quarter-final match between Argentina and England. Maradona scored the opening goal with his hand, an infraction missed by the referee. Powell noted that at the time, the lack of VAR meant there was no redress. He also mentioned the reaction of England's players, who focused on their goalkeeper Peter Shilton's hesitation rather than the handball itself.
Years later, in Barcelona, Maradona reportedly confided in Powell and Terry Venables, then manager of Barcelona, about the goal. According to Powell, Maradona admitted he had put up his hand "expecting to be battered by Shilton" and "had no idea how it went into the goal." This statement, Powell suggests, offered a different perspective on the event than the widely accepted narrative.
Reflections on Rivalries and Football's Impact
Powell's recollections also touch upon the complex relationship between England and Argentina, exacerbated by the Falklands War. He noted how the 1966 World Cup quarter-final, marred by controversy and a red card for Argentinian captain Antonio Rattin, had created animosity, which was later eased by players like Ossie Ardiles joining English clubs. However, the "Hand of God" goal and later incidents, such as David Beckham's red card against Argentina in the 1998 World Cup, reopened old wounds.
Powell's experiences with Maradona extended to a memorable night in Naples, where the player was revered. He ranked Maradona as the second-greatest footballer of all time, behind Pelé and ahead of Lionel Messi. Powell's reflections conclude with a poignant thought on whether diplomatic or political decisions might have been different had figures like Menotti held positions of power beyond football.
"Argentina boss Cesar Luis Menotti speaks to the press after leading his side to World Cup glory in 1978. He bravely stood up to the military junta and picked the team he thought would win" 
"Argentina's Daniel Passarella holds aloft the World Cup after his country's victory in the 1978 final over the Netherlands. I joined the players the following day in Buenos Aires"
"Diego Maradona's Hand of God goal - but he told Terry Venables and I that he feared he would get clattered by Peter Shilton and had no idea how the ball went in"
"It was of no consolation to England’s players and fans that Maradona went on to score the Goal of The Century which sealed that 1986 World Cup quarter-final defeat"
"Argentina captain Antonio Rattin (left) is sent off during the 1966 World Cup clash with England. Alf Ramsey called the Argentinians 'animals' but Bobby Moore was more courteous"
"David Beckham is sent off in the World Cup match against Argentina in France in 1998"
"I had one unforgettable night with Maradona in Naples where he was treated like a God"
