Maradona to Messi: The history of the same 2-1 victory over England after 40 years

The fight between Argentina and England has always held special significance in the history of football. The rivalry between these two teams on the World Cup stage has given rise to many memorable moments. After the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, Argentina has created new history by defeating England by the same margin in the 2026 World Cup.

In the quarter-finals of the 1986 World Cup, Diego Maradona scored two goals. That match is still considered one of the most talked-about matches in football history. Maradona's famous "Hand of God" goal and his extraordinary solo second goal are still indelible in the memories of football fans.

After four decades, Argentina and England will face each other again in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This time too, the Albiceleste left the field with a 2-1 victory. This victory ensured the team a place in the World Cup final.

There are several striking similarities between the two matches. The opponent in both matches was England, the margin of victory was 2-1 and Argentina was led by two legends of the country's football history—Diego Maradona in 1986 and Lionel Messi in 2026.

According to football analysts, the combination of the historic victory in 1986 with this success in 2026 will be a unique chapter in Argentina's World Cup history. This victory against England, led by two great footballers of two eras, on the same scoreline, has been discussed as one of the most memorable statistics of the World Cup.

Argentina is now looking towards the final. Whether Messi, like Maradona, can bring the team the World Cup title or not, is now the biggest question in the football world.