Ranking every World Cup, from worst to best

Mexico 1986

Rating: 9/10

Champion: Argentina 

Argentina, led by Diego Maradona, won their second World Cup title, defeating West Germany in the final 3-2.

Host: Mexico 

Mexico, the first country to earn the right to host the tournament for the second time, once again served as a brilliant host. Like in 1970, games were played during the day under a baking sun. FIFA had originally awarded the tournament to Colombia, but when the South Americans were unable to do so, decided to accept bids once again. Mexico and the United States both showed interest, with FIFA going with the Mexican bid in the end.

Best player: Diego Maradona (Argentina) 

Not since Pele led Brazil to the title in 1970 had one player had such an impact on his team’s ultimate success. In 1986 that player was Maradona. He almost single-handedly led his country to the title, scoring five goals, including two goals against England in the quarterfinals — one in controversial fashion, the other one of the best in the tournament’s history.

Iconic moment:

Not surprisingly, it was Maradona who took part in what two iconic moments, both in the same match, at Mexico ’86. His opening goal against England, where he punched the ball into the goal past goalie Peter Shilton, remains one of the craftiest plays in soccer history. Although Maradona was later branded a cheater by the English, he referred to the goal as being scored by “The Hand of God” when asked about it after the game. Maradona’s second goal included a brilliant run that involved beating five English players before slotting the ball past Shilton. It is arguably the best goal ever scored at a World Cup.

Quality of play:

Little had changed from the defensive tactics of 1982 that would culminate with the 1990 World Cup. Argentina featured Maradona at the height of his game, but there was a supporting cast worthy of a trophy. The midfield on that ’86 team was stacked with talent, including imposing midfielder Sergio Batista and the gritty Ricardo Giusti, while the attack was highlighted by Jorge Valdano and Jorge Burruchaga. Coach Salvador Bilardo, who used a then-innovative 3-5-2 system, knew he could rely on Maradona to be the orchestra leader, either deep in his own half to create chances for Burruchaga or further up the field for a solo performance. Maradona’s individual flair masked a larger truth: Bilardo played an anti-soccer style that did the bare minimum to secure wins. Pragmatism and gamesmanship (like the “Hand of God” goal) were also a big reason the team won the trophy in Mexico that summer.

Kits:

Argentina’s white-and-sky blue stripped jersey and black shorts became bestsellers after the team won the Cup. Iraq’s all-yellow uniforms were an eyesore, as were Algeria’s updated variation of its Espana ’82 kits. 

Miscellaneous:

Bulgaria and Uruguay qualified for the second round without winning a first-round game.