More than four decades later, one of football’s most controversial moments has found a new chapter. The ball used for Diego Maradona’s famous “Hand of God” goal has been sold at auction for around €2.9 million. The Adidas Azteca ball changed hands at a Heritage Auctions sale in the United States. It had an opening bid of $2.5 million and eventually sold for $3.35 million. The final amount was still far below the pre-auction estimate of $10 million.
The ball became part of football history during Argentina’s 2-1 quarter-final win over England at the 1986 World Cup. Maradona used his hand to send it past goalkeeper Peter Shilton, with the goal allowed to stand. He later described it as being scored a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God. Just four minutes later, the same ball was involved in another unforgettable moment. Maradona picked it up in his own half, dribbled past five England players and scored what became known as the “Goal of the Century”. Tunisian referee Ali Bin Nasser kept the ball for more than 30 years after the match. He had previously sold it in 2022 for $2.37 million. The latest sale shows how strongly those unforgettable moments still live in football’s memory.
Lionel Messi vs Armando Maradona: Five reasons why Messi’s legacy stands above Argentine legend
The Lionel Messi vs Armando Maradona debate has been going on for years, especially among Argentine football fans. Maradona’s impact on Argentina remains impossible to ignore. His magical 1986 World Cup campaign made him a national hero. However, Lionel Messi has gradually built a case that is difficult to overlook. The biggest difference came in 2022, when Messi finally won the World Cup with Argentina. He also won the Copa América in 2021 and 2024. That ended the biggest argument against him in the GOAT debate. Messi has also stayed at the top for much longer. His career has stretched across more than two decades, with success at Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami. His consistency has been remarkable even as his role on the pitch has changed.
There is also the sheer number of trophies and individual awards. Messi has collected a remarkable haul of major titles and holds the record for eight Ballon d’Or awards. His goals, assists and record-breaking performances have kept him among football’s best for years. Maradona’s achievements at Napoli and Argentina remain legendary, but his peak at the highest level did not last as long. Another difference is how Messi has evolved his game with age. He has moved from a direct, explosive attacker into a player who controls games through passing and creativity. His calm approach and professionalism have also strengthened his image. Maradona will always have a special place in football history. Still, Messi’s longevity, trophies, international success and consistency give him a strong edge in the debate.
