Fansided

20 biggest sports scandals of all-time

By Josh Criswell

Mar 10, 2014; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; San Francisco Giants former outfielder Barry Bonds in the dugout prior to the game against the Chicago Cubs at Scottsdale Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 10, 2014; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; San Francisco Giants former outfielder Barry Bonds in the dugout prior to the game against the Chicago Cubs at Scottsdale Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 31, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA;Soccer fans watch the game between Ecuador and Argetina during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 31, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA;Soccer fans watch the game between Ecuador and Argetina during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports /

13. Diego Maradona and the ‘Hand of God’

With the Falklands War occurring just four years earlier, there was no love lost between England and Argentina during their 1986 World Cup quarterfinals match.

In the 51st minute of the game, a failed clearing attempt sent the ball heading toward England’s goalkeeper. As he went to punch the ball away, however, the star of the Argentina national team, Diego Maradona, leaped into the air and used his left hand to tap the ball into the net. The officials did not see the infraction, and the goal would go down in World Cup history as the ‘Hand of God’, one of the most controversial moments in the tournament’s history.

Maradona scored just a few minutes later, as he weaved his way past several defenders for a legal goal. Argentina would win the match 2-1, sending England home furious.

Following the thrilling victory, Maradona delivered a memorable quote that would give his notorious goal its fitting nickname.

Per The Telegraph:

"“[The goal was scored] a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.”"

Argentina would go on to defeat West Germany to claim the World Cup Championship. Maradona was honored with the Golden Ball, given to the best player of the tournament.

Next: 12. Black Sox scandal

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