Tag: sports

The Maradona Cup

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The 1986 FIFA World Cup was one for the history books, as Diego Maradona single-handedly won the cup for Argentina. His performance at the tournament is regarded as the best individual performance in World Cup history.

     Throughout the tournament Maradona was doing it all, he was captain; and led the team with five goals and assists. What made him so dangerous on the pitch was his speed and ability to create chances for himself and his teammates. He was on a mission to bring back glory to his country and set a name for himself at the biggest stage of football.

     Argentina made it through the group stage easily, and from then on, Maradona left his mark at the tournament against England in the quarterfinals. During the first half, the match was very stalemate as both teams failed to score, but what occurred in the second half created arguably two unforgettable moments in World Cup history. In the 51st minute Maradona scored what was later named “The Hand of God”, as the ball deflected off an English defender and Maradona jumped and punched the ball with his hand to score. As he celebrated, the entire England squad swarmed the referee in disgust as they protested that it was a handball, but the goal stood. Not even five minutes later, Maradona scored what is considered the greatest goal scored in World Cup history, as he dribbled through the entire England squad.

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     Argentina went on to win the match 2-1, and he later scored two more in a 2-0 win in the semifinals against Belgium. Setting up the final between Argentina and West Germany. The final was an exciting match as Argentina surrendered a 2-0 late in the match, but Maradona bailed out his team yet again as he set up the game winning assist in the 85th minute. Sending his team over the hump and winning the match, and crowned World Cup champions for the second time.     

Maradona winning the World Cup cemented his name as one of the greatest of all time. Footballers across the world say winning the World Cup is very difficult, but Maradona seemingly did it on his own, and that there is a feat no one will ever accomplish anytime soon.

Singing the National Anthem

The national anthems for both countries are played, creating special a moment for players and fans coming together before the start of every World Cup match. Letting their opponent know they are ready to win the game. This side of soccer may not be for everyone, but witnessing raw emotion from everyone singing along gives the body goosebumps.

For players, having the opportunity to sing their country’s anthem is a moment they will never forget. The gigantic roar of the crowd can leave a player filled with emotions. Many players do not get the opportunity to represent their nation at a World Cup. For many players, it can be the first and only time they will ever get to experience this monumental moment.

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I have had dreams that I was playing for Mexico in the World Cup, and I was on the pitch singing along to the national anthem. I know it is a feeling that is indescribable. I hope once in my lifetime I can get the opportunity to see this with my own eyes.