<p>Diego Maradona's death last night sent ripples across the world. Indian sporting icons paid their tributes to the great one.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS|&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/it-is-very-special-place-diego-maradonas-love-for-kolkata-345485" hreflang="en">'It is very special place': Diego Maradona's love for Kolkata</a></p>

<p>BCCI president and an ardent football fan Sourav Ganguly led the tribute. "My hero no more ..my mad genius rest in peace ..I watched football for you..," Ganguly tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My hero no more ..my mad genius rest in peace ..I watched football for you.. <a href="https://t.co/JhqFffD2vr">pic.twitter.com/JhqFffD2vr</a></p>
— Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) <a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99/status/1331640612320210944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Football and the world of sports has lost one of its greatest players today.<br />
Rest in Peace Diego Maradona!<br />
You shall be missed. <a href="https://t.co/QxhuROZ5a5">pic.twitter.com/QxhuROZ5a5</a></p>
— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1331649392437194752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Really sad to hear of the passing away of the legendary Maradona. He truly lived life king size &amp; by his rules and set benchmarks on the field and off it too. RIP my friend. You will be missed</p>
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) <a href="https://twitter.com/YUVSTRONG12/status/1331643103330009088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I was among the scores of fans of his game, and so this comes as a big shock! My condolences to Diego Maradona fans all over the world. RIP legend.</p>
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) <a href="https://twitter.com/MohammadKaif/status/1331647154427813888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">RIP Legend 🙏🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maradona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maradona</a> <a href="https://t.co/VUy4QUuJNP">pic.twitter.com/VUy4QUuJNP</a></p>
— Surya Kumar Yadav (@surya_14kumar) <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar/status/1331644645160325125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>The former Napoli megastar had emergency surgery for a subdural haematoma, a blood clot on the brain. He was admitted to the hospital longer than expected as he was showing withdrawal symptoms for his dependency on alcohol before passing away on Wednesday after a heart attack.</p>

<p><strong>IN PICS|&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/world-cup-winner-napoli-legend-drug-addict-rise-and-fall-of-diego-maradona-345411" hreflang="en">World Cup winner, Napoli legend, drug addict: Rise and fall of Diego Maradona</a></p>

<p>Maradona’s affair with drugs and alcohol is known to all which gave him the tag of a controversial footballer. His struggle with addiction – cocaine – and his weight was in contrast to many footballing greats. But despite all this, his god-gifted skills with the ball made him being regarded as arguably the greatest of all-time.&nbsp;</p>


Diego Maradona's death last night sent ripples across the world. Indian sporting icons paid their tributes to the great one. IN PICS| 'It is very special place': Diego Maradona's love for Kolkata BCCI president and an ardent football fan Sourav Ganguly led the tribute.

Diego Maradona's death last night sent ripples across the world. Indian sporting icons paid their tributes to the great one. IN PICS| 'It is very special place': Diego Maradona's love for Kolkata BCCI president and an ardent football fan Sourav Ganguly led the tribute. "My hero no more ..my mad genius rest in peace ..I watched football for you..," Ganguly tweeted. My hero no more ..my mad genius rest in peace ..I watched football for you.. pic.twitter.com/JhqFffD2vr — Sourav Ganguly (@SGanguly99) November 25, 2020 × Football and the world of sports has lost one of its greatest players today. Rest in Peace Diego Maradona! You shall be missed. pic.twitter.com/QxhuROZ5a5 — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) November 25, 2020 × Really sad to hear of the passing away of the legendary Maradona. He truly lived life king size & by his rules and set benchmarks on the field and off it too. RIP my friend. You will be missed — Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) November 25, 2020 × I was among the scores of fans of his game, and so this comes as a big shock! My condolences to Diego Maradona fans all over the world. RIP legend. — Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) November 25, 2020 × RIP Legend 🙏🏻 #Maradona pic.twitter.com/VUy4QUuJNP — Surya Kumar Yadav (@surya_14kumar) November 25, 2020 × The former Napoli megastar had emergency surgery for a subdural haematoma, a blood clot on the brain. He was admitted to the hospital longer than expected as he was showing withdrawal symptoms for his dependency on alcohol before passing away on Wednesday after a heart attack. IN PICS| World Cup winner, Napoli legend, drug addict: Rise and fall of Diego Maradona Maradona’s affair with drugs and alcohol is known to all which gave him the tag of a controversial footballer. His struggle with addiction – cocaine – and his weight was in contrast to many footballing greats. But despite all this, his god-gifted skills with the ball made him being regarded as arguably the greatest of all-time.

'My hero no more': Indian sporting icons pay tribute to Diego Maradona

<p>Argentina football legend Diego Maradona said his hero, late Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro - whom he considered a “second father” and whose face he had tattooed on his leg - once urged him to go into politics.</p>

<p>Maradona, who died on Wednesday aged 60, never fulfilled those aspirations but he did play a role in championing leftist leaders across Latin America - such as Castro, Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez and Bolivia’s Evo Morales - and in helping to lend them broader international appeal.</p>

<p>“Everything Fidel does, everything Chavez does for me is the best (that can be done),” Maradona said on Chavez’s weekly television show in 2007.</p>

<p>“I hate everything that comes from the United States. I hate it with all my strength.”</p>

<p>The son of a factory worker raised in a shantytown on the outskirts of Buenos Aires, Maradona first met Castro in 1987, a year after helping Argentina win the World Cup and four years before the fall of the Soviet Union that would usher in a new era of economic hardship in communist Cuba.</p>

<p>An unlikely friendship between the often outlandish footballer and the well-read revolutionary deepened at the start of the century when Maradona spent four years in Havana to shake an addiction to drugs.</p>

<p>“Coming from such humble beginnings, Castro was his idol,” said Alfredo Tedeschi, an Argentine TV producer now based in Belgium who became close friends with Maradona during a stint working for Reuters in Havana.</p>

<p>“It was like he fell in love (with Castro), and then came Chavez, Morales and the rest,” said Tedeschi, who would often invite the footballer over for traditional Argentine steak barbecue dinners.</p>

<p>Tedeschi recalls the time Maradona knocked on his door and proposed a spontaneous visit to Castro. The Cuban leader received them within minutes of their arrival and cleared his busy agenda to spend three hours with them, including to play football in his office.</p>

<p>“They would always talk about politics - Diego was really interested in politics,” said Tedeschi, adding that Castro would also pay spontaneous visits to his Havana home.</p>

<p>In 2005, Maradona interviewed Castro on his Argentine TV show, asking how George W. Bush had been re-elected president of the United States, to which Castro responded: “Fraud. The terrorist mafia of Miami!”</p>

<p>As such, Maradona was also a propaganda tool for Latin America’s leftist leaders, said Tedeschi.</p>

<p>“Diego was the kind of guy where anything he said would have a repercussion,” said Tedeschi. “And for Fidel, that kind of propaganda was welcome.”</p>

<p>In a twist of fate, Maradona died on the same date, Nov. 25, as his idol did four years ago - upon which occasion he said he “wept uncontrollably.”</p>

<p>“These two dates are intertwined on Nov. 25, and will be throughout history: two greats, one of football and the other of the Cuban revolution,” said pensioner Luis Perez, 64, in Havana.</p>

<p>Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said on Twitter that Maradona’s “friendship with Cuba and especially with Fidel made him part of this people.”</p>

<p>Morales and Chavez’ successor, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, also poured out condolences on Twitter. Maradona had voiced support for Maduro in the face of U.S. sanctions on his government.</p>

<p>“With grief in my heart, I learned of the death of my brother, Diego Armando Maradona, a person who felt and fought for the poor, the best football player in the world,” wrote Morales, an avid soccer fan.</p>

<p>The former Bolivian president recruited Maradona to play against him in a charity match in La Paz in 2008 to show his backing for Bolivia’s campaign against a FIFA ban on matches at high altitude. The ban was later overturned.</p>


Argentina football legend Diego Maradona said his hero, late Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro - whom he considered a “second father” and whose face he had tattooed on his leg - once urged him to go into politics.

Argentina football legend Diego Maradona said his hero, late Cuban revolutionary leader Fidel Castro - whom he considered a “second father” and whose face he had tattooed on his leg - once urged him to go into politics. Maradona, who died on Wednesday aged 60, never fulfilled those aspirations but he did play a role in championing leftist leaders across Latin America - such as Castro, Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez and Bolivia’s Evo Morales - and in helping to lend them broader international appeal. “Everything Fidel does, everything Chavez does for me is the best (that can be done),” Maradona said on Chavez’s weekly television show in 2007. “I hate everything that comes from the United States. I hate it with all my strength.” The son of a factory worker raised in a shantytown on the outskirts of Buenos Aires, Maradona first met Castro in 1987, a year after helping Argentina win the World Cup and four years before the fall of the Soviet Union that would usher in a new era of economic hardship in communist Cuba. An unlikely friendship between the often outlandish footballer and the well-read revolutionary deepened at the start of the century when Maradona spent four years in Havana to shake an addiction to drugs. “Coming from such humble beginnings, Castro was his idol,” said Alfredo Tedeschi, an Argentine TV producer now based in Belgium who became close friends with Maradona during a stint working for Reuters in Havana. “It was like he fell in love (with Castro), and then came Chavez, Morales and the rest,” said Tedeschi, who would often invite the footballer over for traditional Argentine steak barbecue dinners. Tedeschi recalls the time Maradona knocked on his door and proposed a spontaneous visit to Castro. The Cuban leader received them within minutes of their arrival and cleared his busy agenda to spend three hours with them, including to play football in his office. “They would always talk about politics - Diego was really interested in politics,” said Tedeschi, adding that Castro would also pay spontaneous visits to his Havana home. In 2005, Maradona interviewed Castro on his Argentine TV show, asking how George W. Bush had been re-elected president of the United States, to which Castro responded: “Fraud. The terrorist mafia of Miami!” As such, Maradona was also a propaganda tool for Latin America’s leftist leaders, said Tedeschi. “Diego was the kind of guy where anything he said would have a repercussion,” said Tedeschi. “And for Fidel, that kind of propaganda was welcome.” In a twist of fate, Maradona died on the same date, Nov. 25, as his idol did four years ago - upon which occasion he said he “wept uncontrollably.” “These two dates are intertwined on Nov. 25, and will be throughout history: two greats, one of football and the other of the Cuban revolution,” said pensioner Luis Perez, 64, in Havana. Cuba’s Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez said on Twitter that Maradona’s “friendship with Cuba and especially with Fidel made him part of this people.” Morales and Chavez’ successor, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, also poured out condolences on Twitter. Maradona had voiced support for Maduro in the face of U.S. sanctions on his government. “With grief in my heart, I learned of the death of my brother, Diego Armando Maradona, a person who felt and fought for the poor, the best football player in the world,” wrote Morales, an avid soccer fan. The former Bolivian president recruited Maradona to play against him in a charity match in La Paz in 2008 to show his backing for Bolivia’s campaign against a FIFA ban on matches at high altitude. The ban was later overturned.

Maradona, football legend, was a champion of Latin America's left

<p>Argentina's world cup-winning captain <strong>Diego Maradona</strong> on Wednesday breathed his last as he passed away in his house at the age of 60. Maradona, who was regarded as one of the greatest to have taken the football pitch, leaves a rich legacy behind him and remains the only captain to have guided Argentina to a World Cup win.&nbsp;Tributes have come pouring in for Maradona, with the Argentine Football Association announcing the news on social media.</p>

<p>Football lost of its most legendary players as Maradona died on Wednesday, weeks after having brain surgery. As per reports, doctors tried their best to save Maradona's life but it was too late. Maradona was hospitalised earlier this month and underwent surgery for a blood clot on the brain.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rip-maradona-relive-the-iconic-hand-of-god-moment-from-1986-world-cup-watch-video-345382" hreflang="en">RIP Maradona: Relive the iconic 'Hand of God' moment from 1986 World Cup - watch video</a></strong></p>

<p>Maradona was released from the hospital on November 12 and was being treated for his alcohol dependency in a recovery clinic in Buenos Aires.</p>

<p>The former Napoli megastar had emergency surgery for a subdural haematoma, a blood clot on the brain. He was admitted to the hospital longer than expected as he was showing withdrawal symptoms for his dependency on alcohol.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rip-diego-maradona-footballing-world-pays-tribute-to-former-argentine-345378" hreflang="en">'RIP Diego Maradona': Footballing world pays tribute to former Argentine</a></strong></p>

<p>He was managing Argentine club&nbsp;Gimnasia de La Plata.&nbsp; He played club football for Boca Juniors, Napoli and Barcelona among others and was adored by millions all over the world for his brilliant skills.&nbsp;He spent two years at the Nou Camp before heading to Napoli, where he spent the next seven seasons and scored over 100 goals.</p>

<p>Maradona was behind the infamous 'Hand of God' that eliminated England from the 1986 World Cup. His trophy-laden career was tinged with controversy because of drug and alcohol addiction.&nbsp;He almost died of cocaine-induced heart failure in 2000 and underwent years of rehabilitation.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/one-day-well-kick-a-ball-together-pele-pays-his-tribute-to-maradona-345384" hreflang="en">'One day we'll kick a ball together': Pele pays his tribute to Maradona</a></strong></p>

<p>Despite his fair share of controversies, Maradona was hailed as one of the majestic footballers to have graced the football pitch and his left-foot is still admired by many elite footballers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rest in peace, Diego Armando Maradona.</p>


Argentina's world cup-winning captain Diego Maradona on Wednesday breathed his last as he passed away in his house at the age of 60. Maradona, who was regarded as one of the greatest to have taken the football pitch, leaves a rich legacy behind him and remains the only captain to have guided Argentina to a World Cup win.

Argentina's world cup-winning captain Diego Maradona on Wednesday breathed his last as he passed away in his house at the age of 60. Maradona, who was regarded as one of the greatest to have taken the football pitch, leaves a rich legacy behind him and remains the only captain to have guided Argentina to a World Cup win. Tributes have come pouring in for Maradona, with the Argentine Football Association announcing the news on social media. Football lost of its most legendary players as Maradona died on Wednesday, weeks after having brain surgery. As per reports, doctors tried their best to save Maradona's life but it was too late. Maradona was hospitalised earlier this month and underwent surgery for a blood clot on the brain. ALSO READ: RIP Maradona: Relive the iconic 'Hand of God' moment from 1986 World Cup - watch video Maradona was released from the hospital on November 12 and was being treated for his alcohol dependency in a recovery clinic in Buenos Aires. The former Napoli megastar had emergency surgery for a subdural haematoma, a blood clot on the brain. He was admitted to the hospital longer than expected as he was showing withdrawal symptoms for his dependency on alcohol. ALSO READ: 'RIP Diego Maradona': Footballing world pays tribute to former Argentine He was managing Argentine club Gimnasia de La Plata. He played club football for Boca Juniors, Napoli and Barcelona among others and was adored by millions all over the world for his brilliant skills. He spent two years at the Nou Camp before heading to Napoli, where he spent the next seven seasons and scored over 100 goals. Maradona was behind the infamous 'Hand of God' that eliminated England from the 1986 World Cup. His trophy-laden career was tinged with controversy because of drug and alcohol addiction. He almost died of cocaine-induced heart failure in 2000 and underwent years of rehabilitation. ALSO READ: 'One day we'll kick a ball together': Pele pays his tribute to Maradona Despite his fair share of controversies, Maradona was hailed as one of the majestic footballers to have graced the football pitch and his left-foot is still admired by many elite footballers. Rest in peace, Diego Armando Maradona.

Football legend Diego Maradona, 60, dies of heart attack

<p>Former Reuters Cuba correspondent Andrew Cawthorne recalls taking the field with Diego Maradona, who died on Wednesday, in this Reuters story from 2004.</p>

<p>As I stepped up to take the penalty in Cuba’s national soccer stadium, a bloated but grinning Diego Maradona wiped and placed the ball, whispered words of advice and clasped his hands in prayer.</p>

<p>Inevitably, I scuffed the ball into the goalkeeper’s arms. “You struck it well, you’ll do better,” Maradona lied.</p>

<p>The foreign press lost 6-0 to a Maradona friends’ XI on that rainy evening in Havana in June, 2000 - a defeat that fulfilled a boyhood fantasy of playing alongside one of the world’s greatest footballers.</p>

<p>Maradona was in Cuba to receive free medical treatment for his drug and alcohol problems. His manager Guillermo Coppola had quietly asked us to avoid tackling the then grossly overweight Argentine so as not to humiliate him.</p>

<p>But the humiliation was all ours as Maradona, despite his awful state, used his innate vision and skill to score two long-range goals past our chain-smoking goalkeeper.</p>

<p>That was one of several games I played with Maradona. He had arrived in Cuba earlier in the year after nearly dying in Uruguay and used the kick-arounds to build up fitness.</p>

<p>The Cuban Football Federation laid on their national Pedro Marrero stadium — complete with post-match masseurs — that night in the great man’s honour. At other times, we just played on pitches in a field and behind a hotel.</p>

<p>Every time he scored, Maradona’s goal celebrations were the same I remembered from his glory days, beating England en route to winning the World Cup in Mexico in 1986 or helping transform Napoli’s fortunes in Italy.</p>

<p>Fists clenched, arms raised, head tilted back, eyes to the heavens, Maradona would whoop in delight before falling to the ground or running wildly across the pitch to celebrate.</p>

<p>“What a wonderful feeling to score a goal. I love this game. This is my life,” he roared in ecstasy during one five-a-side.</p>

<p>I had Reuters colleague Alfredo Tedeschi to thank for my friendship with Maradona in Cuba.</p>

<p>‘DO THEY HATE ME IN ENGLAND?’</p>

<p>A TV cameraman and fellow Argentine, Tedeschi infuriated Maradona so much with his paparazzi-style tactics that the footballer punched through his car window in anger within a few days of coming to Cuba to get out of the limelight.</p>

<p>Tedeschi was also a larger-than-life character and the pair made up within days with a bearhug and a barbecued steak.</p>

<p>After that Maradona began visiting his house nearly every day, enjoying Tedeschi’s fine wines and thick steaks to the surprise of those of us who thought he was on a strict diet.</p>

<p>Watching his beloved Boca Juniors or the Argentine national team live via a special satellite link Tedeschi had organised just for him, Maradona would scream like a madman at the referee and celebrate goals by diving fully clothed into Tedeschi’s swimming pool.</p>

<p>One night, over cigars and wine after dinner, I posed him the question I had been longing to ask: “So how did it feel to score those two goals against England in 1986?”</p>

<p>I feared he would be bored to answer it yet again but to my delight, Maradona — aware of the uncritical adulation from myself and Tedeschi’s two boys sitting with us — launched into an hour-long reminiscence.</p>

<p>He laughed at the famous “Hand of God” goal, before asking with real concern “Do they hate me in England?”.</p>

<p>Then he talked us through every swerve and swivel of his famous waltz through England’s team for arguably the best goal in the history of the World Cup.</p>

<p>Maradona’s pipe-dream was to manage a big club. “Manchester United or Real Madrid would do”, he said half-seriously, his ego and desperation to stay in the game blinding him to how badly his reputation had been shattered by his drug problem.</p>

<p>During one game on Tedeschi’s television, Maradona rushed up to the set at halftime when a publicity spot showed him as a teenager. “That’s me, look at me!” he shouted like a kid.</p>

<p>His delight was unbounded when, following a discreet mobile telephone call from Coppola to a Buenos Aires TV contact, the camera swung round to show his daughter standing in the crowd.</p>

<p>In Havana, Maradona met his own hero, Cuban President Fidel Castro, several times. Once, behind closed doors at Havana’s Revolution Palace, he taught the septuagenarian, baseball-loving revolutionary how to dribble a soccer ball.</p>

<p>Maradona showed off to Cuba’s “Maximum Leader” a tattoo of Castro that the Argentine had on his left shin, and another longer-standing tattoo of Argentine revolutionary Ernesto “Che” Guevara on his right shoulder.</p>

<p>“I’m not communist, but I’m ‘Fidelista’ to my death,” Maradona told us later.</p>


Former Reuters Cuba correspondent Andrew Cawthorne recalls taking the field with Diego Maradona, who died on Wednesday, in this Reuters story from 2004. As I stepped up to take the penalty in Cuba’s national soccer stadium, a bloated but grinning Diego Maradona wiped and placed the ball, whispered words of advice and clasped his hands in prayer.

Former Reuters Cuba correspondent Andrew Cawthorne recalls taking the field with Diego Maradona, who died on Wednesday, in this Reuters story from 2004. As I stepped up to take the penalty in Cuba’s national soccer stadium, a bloated but grinning Diego Maradona wiped and placed the ball, whispered words of advice and clasped his hands in prayer. Inevitably, I scuffed the ball into the goalkeeper’s arms. “You struck it well, you’ll do better,” Maradona lied. The foreign press lost 6-0 to a Maradona friends’ XI on that rainy evening in Havana in June, 2000 - a defeat that fulfilled a boyhood fantasy of playing alongside one of the world’s greatest footballers. Maradona was in Cuba to receive free medical treatment for his drug and alcohol problems. His manager Guillermo Coppola had quietly asked us to avoid tackling the then grossly overweight Argentine so as not to humiliate him. But the humiliation was all ours as Maradona, despite his awful state, used his innate vision and skill to score two long-range goals past our chain-smoking goalkeeper. That was one of several games I played with Maradona. He had arrived in Cuba earlier in the year after nearly dying in Uruguay and used the kick-arounds to build up fitness. The Cuban Football Federation laid on their national Pedro Marrero stadium — complete with post-match masseurs — that night in the great man’s honour. At other times, we just played on pitches in a field and behind a hotel. Every time he scored, Maradona’s goal celebrations were the same I remembered from his glory days, beating England en route to winning the World Cup in Mexico in 1986 or helping transform Napoli’s fortunes in Italy. Fists clenched, arms raised, head tilted back, eyes to the heavens, Maradona would whoop in delight before falling to the ground or running wildly across the pitch to celebrate. “What a wonderful feeling to score a goal. I love this game. This is my life,” he roared in ecstasy during one five-a-side. I had Reuters colleague Alfredo Tedeschi to thank for my friendship with Maradona in Cuba. ‘DO THEY HATE ME IN ENGLAND?’ A TV cameraman and fellow Argentine, Tedeschi infuriated Maradona so much with his paparazzi-style tactics that the footballer punched through his car window in anger within a few days of coming to Cuba to get out of the limelight. Tedeschi was also a larger-than-life character and the pair made up within days with a bearhug and a barbecued steak. After that Maradona began visiting his house nearly every day, enjoying Tedeschi’s fine wines and thick steaks to the surprise of those of us who thought he was on a strict diet. Watching his beloved Boca Juniors or the Argentine national team live via a special satellite link Tedeschi had organised just for him, Maradona would scream like a madman at the referee and celebrate goals by diving fully clothed into Tedeschi’s swimming pool. One night, over cigars and wine after dinner, I posed him the question I had been longing to ask: “So how did it feel to score those two goals against England in 1986?” I feared he would be bored to answer it yet again but to my delight, Maradona — aware of the uncritical adulation from myself and Tedeschi’s two boys sitting with us — launched into an hour-long reminiscence. He laughed at the famous “Hand of God” goal, before asking with real concern “Do they hate me in England?”. Then he talked us through every swerve and swivel of his famous waltz through England’s team for arguably the best goal in the history of the World Cup. Maradona’s pipe-dream was to manage a big club. “Manchester United or Real Madrid would do”, he said half-seriously, his ego and desperation to stay in the game blinding him to how badly his reputation had been shattered by his drug problem. During one game on Tedeschi’s television, Maradona rushed up to the set at halftime when a publicity spot showed him as a teenager. “That’s me, look at me!” he shouted like a kid. His delight was unbounded when, following a discreet mobile telephone call from Coppola to a Buenos Aires TV contact, the camera swung round to show his daughter standing in the crowd. In Havana, Maradona met his own hero, Cuban President Fidel Castro, several times. Once, behind closed doors at Havana’s Revolution Palace, he taught the septuagenarian, baseball-loving revolutionary how to dribble a soccer ball. Maradona showed off to Cuba’s “Maximum Leader” a tattoo of Castro that the Argentine had on his left shin, and another longer-standing tattoo of Argentine revolutionary Ernesto “Che” Guevara on his right shoulder. “I’m not communist, but I’m ‘Fidelista’ to my death,” Maradona told us later.

My kick-arounds with Maradona in Cuba

<p>Napoli on Wednesday bid farewell to Diego Maradona, who won the hearts of the southern Italian city of Naples by leading them to their only two league titles in 1987 and 1990.</p>

<p>"For always. Ciao Diego," the club wrote with a blue heart emoji shortly after the news broke that the Argentine had died of a heart attack aged 60.</p>

<p>As a sign of mourning, Napoli changed the blue background colour of its club logo on their social media accounts to black.</p>

<p>Maradona spent seven years at the then-unfashionable Napoli between 1984 and 1991, during which he also lifted the 1989 UEFA Cup, Napoli's only European trophy.</p>

<p>Italian sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora, a native of Naples, also paid tribute to Maradona.</p>

<p>"The death of Maradona is terrible news. He was more than a champion, he was a football genius, an absolute champion," Spadafora said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In an unrepeatable season he represented the dreams and hopes of the people of my city. Naples is crying tonight."</p>


Napoli on Wednesday bid farewell to Diego Maradona, who won the hearts of the southern Italian city of Naples by leading them to their only two league titles in 1987 and 1990.

Napoli on Wednesday bid farewell to Diego Maradona, who won the hearts of the southern Italian city of Naples by leading them to their only two league titles in 1987 and 1990. "For always. Ciao Diego," the club wrote with a blue heart emoji shortly after the news broke that the Argentine had died of a heart attack aged 60. As a sign of mourning, Napoli changed the blue background colour of its club logo on their social media accounts to black. Maradona spent seven years at the then-unfashionable Napoli between 1984 and 1991, during which he also lifted the 1989 UEFA Cup, Napoli's only European trophy. Italian sports minister Vincenzo Spadafora, a native of Naples, also paid tribute to Maradona. "The death of Maradona is terrible news. He was more than a champion, he was a football genius, an absolute champion," Spadafora said. "In an unrepeatable season he represented the dreams and hopes of the people of my city. Naples is crying tonight."

'Ciao Diego:' Napoli bid farewell to club legend Maradona

<p>Argentine football legend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-legend-diego-maradona-60-dies-of-heart-attack-345375"><strong>Diego Maradona</strong> on Wednesday passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest</a> in his house in Argentina. Maradona lived his life to the fullest after achieving trophies and accolades in both club and international football. Maradona’s most iconic moment was arguably his infamous ‘<strong>Hand of God</strong>’ moment during <strong>Argentina versus England</strong> match in the <strong>1986 FIFA World Cup</strong> at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.</p>

<p>According to rules, Maradona should have received a yellow card for clear handball but due to lack of technology, the referees didn’t get a clear view of the play and the goal was awarded to Argentina as they went on to win the match 2-1 with both goals scored by Maradona. His second goal in the match is regarded as the “Goal of the Century”. After the match against England, Maradona conceded that the goal was scored "a little with his head, and a little with the hand of God".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rip-diego-maradona-footballing-world-pay-tribute-to-former-argentine-345378" hreflang="en">'RIP Diego Maradona': Footballing world pay tribute to former Argentine</a></strong></p>

<p>With the match between England and Argentina tied at 0-0 at the end of first half, Maradona lit up the stage in the second half. Six minutes into the second half of the match, Maradona passed the ball to his teammate Jorge Valdano as the latter tried to dribble past the English defenders. However, the ball was cleared towards the England goal by defender Steve Hodge.</p>

<p>Maradona pounced on the chance but struggled to get the ball against goalkeeper Peter Shilton. Both Maradona and Shilton jumped but the Argentine used his left arm to get the ball and rattle the net to give Argentina the much-needed lead. While English players complained to the referees, Maradona and his Argentine teammates celebrated in joy as the goal stood.</p>

<h2>WATCH VIDEO: Diego Maradona's iconic 'Hand of God' moment from 1986 FIFA World Cup</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Rest in peace Hand of God<br />
RIP Legend Argentine Legend<br />
Rest in Perfect Peace Maradona. <a href="https://t.co/97VAmT3UyA">pic.twitter.com/97VAmT3UyA</a></p>
— Skillz ➆ (@plugmanskillz) <a href="https://twitter.com/plugmanskillz/status/1331647914897190912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On 22 June 1986 Diego Maradona scored one of the greatest World Cup goals during a 2-1 victory by Argentina over England in the Quarter Final. This goal came after his infamous “Hand of God” goal in the same game. <a href="https://t.co/U3F5sb3Hfa">pic.twitter.com/U3F5sb3Hfa</a></p>
— Prof Frank McDonough (@FXMC1957) <a href="https://twitter.com/FXMC1957/status/1331642688731541511?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-legend-diego-maradona-60-dies-of-heart-attack-345375" hreflang="en">Football legend Diego Maradona, 60, dies of heart attack</a></strong></p>

<p>In 2005, Maradona confessed on a program La Noche del 10, that the goal was actually scored with his hand.<br />
Albeit, the goal stands as one of the most iconic and controversial moments in world football – one that gave Argentina their only World Cup triumph so far.</p>


Argentine football legend Diego Maradona on Wednesday passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest in his house in Argentina. Maradona lived his life to the fullest after achieving trophies and accolades in both club and international football.

Argentine football legend Diego Maradona on Wednesday passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest in his house in Argentina. Maradona lived his life to the fullest after achieving trophies and accolades in both club and international football. Maradona’s most iconic moment was arguably his infamous ‘Hand of God’ moment during Argentina versus England match in the 1986 FIFA World Cup at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City. According to rules, Maradona should have received a yellow card for clear handball but due to lack of technology, the referees didn’t get a clear view of the play and the goal was awarded to Argentina as they went on to win the match 2-1 with both goals scored by Maradona. His second goal in the match is regarded as the “Goal of the Century”. After the match against England, Maradona conceded that the goal was scored "a little with his head, and a little with the hand of God". ALSO READ: 'RIP Diego Maradona': Footballing world pay tribute to former Argentine With the match between England and Argentina tied at 0-0 at the end of first half, Maradona lit up the stage in the second half. Six minutes into the second half of the match, Maradona passed the ball to his teammate Jorge Valdano as the latter tried to dribble past the English defenders. However, the ball was cleared towards the England goal by defender Steve Hodge. Maradona pounced on the chance but struggled to get the ball against goalkeeper Peter Shilton. Both Maradona and Shilton jumped but the Argentine used his left arm to get the ball and rattle the net to give Argentina the much-needed lead. While English players complained to the referees, Maradona and his Argentine teammates celebrated in joy as the goal stood. WATCH VIDEO: Diego Maradona's iconic 'Hand of God' moment from 1986 FIFA World Cup Rest in peace Hand of God RIP Legend Argentine Legend Rest in Perfect Peace Maradona. pic.twitter.com/97VAmT3UyA — Skillz ➆ (@plugmanskillz) November 25, 2020 × On 22 June 1986 Diego Maradona scored one of the greatest World Cup goals during a 2-1 victory by Argentina over England in the Quarter Final. This goal came after his infamous “Hand of God” goal in the same game. pic.twitter.com/U3F5sb3Hfa — Prof Frank McDonough (@FXMC1957) November 25, 2020 × ALSO READ: Football legend Diego Maradona, 60, dies of heart attack In 2005, Maradona confessed on a program La Noche del 10, that the goal was actually scored with his hand. Albeit, the goal stands as one of the most iconic and controversial moments in world football – one that gave Argentina their only World Cup triumph so far.

RIP Maradona: Relive the iconic 'Hand of God' moment from 1986 World Cup - watch video

<p>Few players mastered the spectacular quite like Diego Maradona. From stunning free-kicks to winding dribbles, the Argentine, who has died at the age of 60, scored some of the most famous -- and thrilling -- goals in football history.</p>

<p>Here AFP Sport picks five of the best from arguably the greatest footballer to ever play the game:</p>

<h2>The 'Goal of the Century'</h2>

<p>The solo goal against which all solo goals will be judged. Named the "Goal of the Century" by FIFA in 2002, his high-speed slalom in Mexico in 1986 ended England's World Cup and cemented Maradona's position as the world's best footballer.</p>

<p>The goal trumps others of its type not just because of its impact, the stage, the spectre of the Falklands War and the fact that it came just minutes after his notorious 'Hand of God' goal, but for the efficiency of its execution.</p>

<p>Maradona barely deviates from his path towards goal the moment he spins free in midfield, with a few drops of the shoulder enough to embarrass England for the second time in the space of five minutes.</p>

<p>"Diego assures me that he meant to pass to me several times but there was always some obstacle that forced him to change plans. Just as well," striker Jorge Valdano, who followed Maradona up the field, said later.</p>

<p>"But let's not deceive ourselves, I am convinced that Diego was never going to release that ball. Throughout those 10 seconds and 10 touches, he changed his mind hundreds of times because that's how the mind of genius in action works."</p>

<h2>The 'Divine free-kick' that conquered Naples</h2>

<p>Nicknamed the "divine free-kick" in Italy, Maradona's iconic winning goal for Napoli in the November 1985 home clash with Michel Platini's Juventus -- reigning European champions --&nbsp;was the one that created the Argentine's legend in Naples.</p>

<p>Standing over an indirect free-kick well inside the penalty area, legend has it that Maradona asked midfielder Eraldo Pecci to roll him the ball for a shot despite the closeness of the Juventus wall.</p>

<p>With Napoli players furious at their Juve counterparts for not stepping further back, Maradona simply said: "Don't worry, I'll score anyway".</p>

<p>A quick touch from Pecci was all he needed to flick a stupendous effort over a group of Juve players who were practically on his toes as he hit the ball and past a bamboozled Stefano Tacconi in the Juve goal.</p>

<p>"With this goal," he wrote in 2017, "I conquered the hearts of Neapolitans."</p>

<h2>'El Pibe' volleys Verona&nbsp;</h2>

<p>There were more crucial goals among Maradona's 115 for Napoli, but few matched the sheer nonchalance of his outrageous lob in a 5-0 hammering of reigning Serie A champions Hellas Verona in October 1985.</p>

<p>Collecting a long pass with his back to goal on the left flank, Maradona span round and saw future teammate Giuliano Giuliani positioned just too far to the left, only a few yards off his line.</p>

<p>Quick as a flash, and with the ball still bouncing, Maradona took a step and clipped a looping shot towards goal that gently faded off the left post as Giuliani realised -- too late -- that he was about to be humiliated.</p>

<h2>Bamboozled Belgium beaten</h2>

<p>His world-beating effort against England is rightly the goal everyone remembers, but his second of another double against Belgium in the semi-finals of the same World Cup in 1986 was almost as good.</p>

<p>Picking the ball up on the edge of midfield in the 63rd minute having already put Argentina a goal ahead, he quickly advanced and sent three Belgium defenders packing with one shimmy which allowed him to charge into the penalty area.</p>

<p>Having now isolated flat-footed right back Eric Gerets, he drags ball and defender to the left before cutting his shot back across goalkeeper Jean-Marie Pfaff, who can only sit on his backside as a fierce drive flashes past him and puts Maradona to within touching distance of World Cup glory.</p>

<h2>Derby destruction</h2>

<p>A lifelong Boca Juniors fan, Maradona spent barely a year and a half at his boyhood club before departing for Europe, but&nbsp;he quickly won the hearts of the supporters of the Buenos Aires giants with his prodigious attacking play.</p>

<p>In November 1981 Maradona lit up River Plate's Monumental stadium with the sort of vision that took him to the very top of the game, somehow scoring from a tight angle on the left flank with nothing on and barely any gap in which to squeeze the ball.</p>

<p>The shot both floated and flew past a bewildered River and Argentina stopper Ubaldo Fillol, who in a foreshadowing of Giuliani's desperation for Verona, raced in vain towards his near post but was beaten before he had even moved.</p>


Few players mastered the spectacular quite like Diego Maradona. From stunning free-kicks to winding dribbles, the Argentine, who has died at the age of 60, scored some of the most famous -- and thrilling -- goals in football history.

Few players mastered the spectacular quite like Diego Maradona. From stunning free-kicks to winding dribbles, the Argentine, who has died at the age of 60, scored some of the most famous -- and thrilling -- goals in football history. Here AFP Sport picks five of the best from arguably the greatest footballer to ever play the game: The 'Goal of the Century' The solo goal against which all solo goals will be judged. Named the "Goal of the Century" by FIFA in 2002, his high-speed slalom in Mexico in 1986 ended England's World Cup and cemented Maradona's position as the world's best footballer. The goal trumps others of its type not just because of its impact, the stage, the spectre of the Falklands War and the fact that it came just minutes after his notorious 'Hand of God' goal, but for the efficiency of its execution. Maradona barely deviates from his path towards goal the moment he spins free in midfield, with a few drops of the shoulder enough to embarrass England for the second time in the space of five minutes. "Diego assures me that he meant to pass to me several times but there was always some obstacle that forced him to change plans. Just as well," striker Jorge Valdano, who followed Maradona up the field, said later. "But let's not deceive ourselves, I am convinced that Diego was never going to release that ball. Throughout those 10 seconds and 10 touches, he changed his mind hundreds of times because that's how the mind of genius in action works." The 'Divine free-kick' that conquered Naples Nicknamed the "divine free-kick" in Italy, Maradona's iconic winning goal for Napoli in the November 1985 home clash with Michel Platini's Juventus -- reigning European champions -- was the one that created the Argentine's legend in Naples. Standing over an indirect free-kick well inside the penalty area, legend has it that Maradona asked midfielder Eraldo Pecci to roll him the ball for a shot despite the closeness of the Juventus wall. With Napoli players furious at their Juve counterparts for not stepping further back, Maradona simply said: "Don't worry, I'll score anyway". A quick touch from Pecci was all he needed to flick a stupendous effort over a group of Juve players who were practically on his toes as he hit the ball and past a bamboozled Stefano Tacconi in the Juve goal. "With this goal," he wrote in 2017, "I conquered the hearts of Neapolitans." 'El Pibe' volleys Verona There were more crucial goals among Maradona's 115 for Napoli, but few matched the sheer nonchalance of his outrageous lob in a 5-0 hammering of reigning Serie A champions Hellas Verona in October 1985. Collecting a long pass with his back to goal on the left flank, Maradona span round and saw future teammate Giuliano Giuliani positioned just too far to the left, only a few yards off his line. Quick as a flash, and with the ball still bouncing, Maradona took a step and clipped a looping shot towards goal that gently faded off the left post as Giuliani realised -- too late -- that he was about to be humiliated. Bamboozled Belgium beaten His world-beating effort against England is rightly the goal everyone remembers, but his second of another double against Belgium in the semi-finals of the same World Cup in 1986 was almost as good. Picking the ball up on the edge of midfield in the 63rd minute having already put Argentina a goal ahead, he quickly advanced and sent three Belgium defenders packing with one shimmy which allowed him to charge into the penalty area. Having now isolated flat-footed right back Eric Gerets, he drags ball and defender to the left before cutting his shot back across goalkeeper Jean-Marie Pfaff, who can only sit on his backside as a fierce drive flashes past him and puts Maradona to within touching distance of World Cup glory. Derby destruction A lifelong Boca Juniors fan, Maradona spent barely a year and a half at his boyhood club before departing for Europe, but he quickly won the hearts of the supporters of the Buenos Aires giants with his prodigious attacking play. In November 1981 Maradona lit up River Plate's Monumental stadium with the sort of vision that took him to the very top of the game, somehow scoring from a tight angle on the left flank with nothing on and barely any gap in which to squeeze the ball. The shot both floated and flew past a bewildered River and Argentina stopper Ubaldo Fillol, who in a foreshadowing of Giuliani's desperation for Verona, raced in vain towards his near post but was beaten before he had even moved.

Diego Maradona - Five of his greatest goals

<p>Football icon Diego Maradona died at the age of 60 after suffering a cardiac arrest, as per media reports in Argentina.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rip-diego-maradona-footballing-world-pays-tribute-to-former-argentine-345378" hreflang="en">'RIP Diego Maradona': Footballing world pay tribute to former Argentine</a></p>

<p>The world cup-winning captain was hospitalised and had undergone brain surgery. Maradona was discharged on November 11. Many clubs and players paid their heartfelt tribute to the Argentine. Brazil's legendary football player Pele paid tribute to Maradona.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-legend-diego-maradona-60-dies-of-heart-attack-345375" hreflang="en">Football legend Diego Maradona, 60, dies of heart attack</a></p>

<p>"Certainly, one day we'll kick a ball together in the sky above," Pele said in a brief statement provided to Reuters by a representative.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pele and Maradona are considered to be one of the best in the game. Both players played a vital role for their respective countries. Maradona helped Argentina win the world cup in 1986. Pele, himself has won the world cup thrice.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rip-maradona-relive-the-iconic-hand-of-god-moment-from-1986-world-cup-watch-video-345382" hreflang="en">RIP Maradona: Relive the iconic 'Hand of God' moment from 1986 World Cup - watch video</a></p>

<p>Both players have appeared together at many occassions and have been respectful to each other.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maradona suffered a heart attack at his home just two weeks after leaving hospital where he underwent surgery on a blot clot in his brain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was managing an Argentine club, Gimnasia de La Plata. He played club football for Boca Juniors, Napoli and Barcelona among others and was adored by millions all over the world for his brilliant skills. He spent two years at the Nou Camp before heading to Napoli, where he spent the next seven seasons and scored over 100 goals.</p>

<p>His trophy-laden career was tinged with controversy because of drug and alcohol addiction. He almost died of cocaine-induced heart failure in 2000 and underwent years of rehabilitation.</p>

<p>Despite his fair share of controversies, Maradona was hailed as one of the majestic footballers to have graced the football pitch and his left-foot is still admired by many elite footballers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rest in peace, Diego Armando Maradona.</p>


Football icon Diego Maradona died at the age of 60 after suffering a cardiac arrest, as per media reports in Argentina. Also read: 'RIP Diego Maradona': Footballing world pay tribute to former Argentine The world cup-winning captain was hospitalised and had undergone brain surgery.

Football icon Diego Maradona died at the age of 60 after suffering a cardiac arrest, as per media reports in Argentina. Also read: 'RIP Diego Maradona': Footballing world pay tribute to former Argentine The world cup-winning captain was hospitalised and had undergone brain surgery. Maradona was discharged on November 11. Many clubs and players paid their heartfelt tribute to the Argentine. Brazil's legendary football player Pele paid tribute to Maradona. Also read: Football legend Diego Maradona, 60, dies of heart attack "Certainly, one day we'll kick a ball together in the sky above," Pele said in a brief statement provided to Reuters by a representative. Pele and Maradona are considered to be one of the best in the game. Both players played a vital role for their respective countries. Maradona helped Argentina win the world cup in 1986. Pele, himself has won the world cup thrice. Also read: RIP Maradona: Relive the iconic 'Hand of God' moment from 1986 World Cup - watch video Both players have appeared together at many occassions and have been respectful to each other. Maradona suffered a heart attack at his home just two weeks after leaving hospital where he underwent surgery on a blot clot in his brain. He was managing an Argentine club, Gimnasia de La Plata. He played club football for Boca Juniors, Napoli and Barcelona among others and was adored by millions all over the world for his brilliant skills. He spent two years at the Nou Camp before heading to Napoli, where he spent the next seven seasons and scored over 100 goals. His trophy-laden career was tinged with controversy because of drug and alcohol addiction. He almost died of cocaine-induced heart failure in 2000 and underwent years of rehabilitation. Despite his fair share of controversies, Maradona was hailed as one of the majestic footballers to have graced the football pitch and his left-foot is still admired by many elite footballers. Rest in peace, Diego Armando Maradona.

'One day we'll kick a ball together': Pele pays his tribute to Maradona

<p>Argentine football legend Diego Maradona is expected to leave hospital on Wednesday, his doctor said, eight days after undergoing surgery to remove a blood clot on his brain.</p>

<p>Maradona "has a signed discharge," and could go home, Leopoldo Luque told reporters outside the Olivos clinic in Buenos Aires.</p>

<p>"He's coming out very soon," the doctor said.</p>

<p>Luque had earlier published on Instagram a photo of himself hugging the 60-year-old, who wore a bandage on his head.</p>

<p>Maradona is expected to continue his rehabilitation in Tigre, 30 kilometers (19 miles) north of Buenos Aires, near his daughter Giannina's home.</p>

<p>"Diego has gone through perhaps the hardest time of his life," his lawyer Matias Morla said earlier Wednesday, adding it was a "miracle" that the clot "which could have taken his life, was detected."</p>

<p>"What is needed now is family togetherness and being surrounded by health professionals," said Morla. "With the doctors and his family, Diego will be as he should be: happy."</p>

<p>The World Cup-winning former Argentine captain underwent surgery last Tuesday to remove a clot lodged between his brain and skull.</p>

<p>He had looked unwell during a brief appearance on October 30 to mark his 60th birthday at the stadium of Gimnasia y Esgrima, the Argentine Primera Division team he coaches.</p>

<p>He seemed to have difficulty walking and did not stay to watch his team's game.</p>

<p>The following Monday, he was taken to hospital in La Plata, where the club is based, suffering from symptoms of anemia and dehydration.</p>

<p>Tests revealed the blood clot, after which Maradona was transferred to a specialist clinic in the capital.</p>

<p>Maradona has been admitted to hospital three times in the last 20 years for serious health issues -- two of which were potentially fatal -- due to his drug and alcohol addictions.</p>

<p>Now free of drugs, Maradona remains dependent on alcohol.</p>

<p>Last week, his doctor had said the football icon would require prolonged treatment in a clinic with different specialties than the current one.</p>

<p>Maradona's daughters Dalma, Giannina and Jana have visited him daily at the clinic.</p>

<p>His oldest son, Diego Jr, who lives in Italy, announced last Thursday on social media that he had tested positive for Covid-19 and therefore would not be able to travel to Buenos Aires.</p>

<p>Alongside Brazil's Pele, who turned 80 last month, Maradona is widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time.</p>


Argentine football legend Diego Maradona is expected to leave hospital on Wednesday, his doctor said, eight days after undergoing surgery to remove a blood clot on his brain.

Argentine football legend Diego Maradona is expected to leave hospital on Wednesday, his doctor said, eight days after undergoing surgery to remove a blood clot on his brain. Maradona "has a signed discharge," and could go home, Leopoldo Luque told reporters outside the Olivos clinic in Buenos Aires. "He's coming out very soon," the doctor said. Luque had earlier published on Instagram a photo of himself hugging the 60-year-old, who wore a bandage on his head. Maradona is expected to continue his rehabilitation in Tigre, 30 kilometers (19 miles) north of Buenos Aires, near his daughter Giannina's home. "Diego has gone through perhaps the hardest time of his life," his lawyer Matias Morla said earlier Wednesday, adding it was a "miracle" that the clot "which could have taken his life, was detected." "What is needed now is family togetherness and being surrounded by health professionals," said Morla. "With the doctors and his family, Diego will be as he should be: happy." The World Cup-winning former Argentine captain underwent surgery last Tuesday to remove a clot lodged between his brain and skull. He had looked unwell during a brief appearance on October 30 to mark his 60th birthday at the stadium of Gimnasia y Esgrima, the Argentine Primera Division team he coaches. He seemed to have difficulty walking and did not stay to watch his team's game. The following Monday, he was taken to hospital in La Plata, where the club is based, suffering from symptoms of anemia and dehydration. Tests revealed the blood clot, after which Maradona was transferred to a specialist clinic in the capital. Maradona has been admitted to hospital three times in the last 20 years for serious health issues -- two of which were potentially fatal -- due to his drug and alcohol addictions. Now free of drugs, Maradona remains dependent on alcohol. Last week, his doctor had said the football icon would require prolonged treatment in a clinic with different specialties than the current one. Maradona's daughters Dalma, Giannina and Jana have visited him daily at the clinic. His oldest son, Diego Jr, who lives in Italy, announced last Thursday on social media that he had tested positive for Covid-19 and therefore would not be able to travel to Buenos Aires. Alongside Brazil's Pele, who turned 80 last month, Maradona is widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time.

Diego Maradona allowed to leave hospital: doctor

<p>Argentine football great Diego Maradona is progressing well after brain surgery on a blood clot and could be discharged this week, his doctor said Monday.</p>

<p>Maradona, 60, underwent surgery last Tuesday to remove a clot lodged between his brain and skull.</p>

<p>"Diego is in the mood to leave, and we are evaluating the discharge that could be tomorrow or probably Wednesday, we have to see the clinical parameters, but the progress is very good," Leopoldo Luque told reporters.</p>

<p>Maradona, who went into isolation two weeks ago after one of his bodyguards displayed coronavirus symptoms, had looked unwell during a brief appearance on October 30 at his 60th birthday celebration at the stadium of Gimnasia y Esgrima, the Argentine Primera Division team he coaches.</p>

<p>He seemed to have difficulty walking and did not hang around to watch his side's match.</p>

<p>The following Monday, he was taken to hospital in La Plata, where the club is based, suffering from symptoms of anemia and dehydration.</p>

<p>Tests revealed the blood clot, after which Maradona was transferred to a specialist clinic in the capital.</p>

<p>Since his surgery, he has progressed well, although Luque had revealed Thursday that Maradona was receiving intensive treatment and sedatives for withdrawal symptoms. This treatment began to be scaled back on Monday.</p>

<p>Luque also played down a rumor cited by local press about the presence of a Covid-19 patient in the clinic.</p>

<p>"Covid is everywhere, there is nothing here that there is not elsewhere, and the care and protocols are followed to perfection," he said.</p>

<p>Luque also avoided specifying where Maradona will recuperate once he is discharged.</p>

<p>"We will discuss these issues when the time comes, we will discuss them together with the family. We all agree to take Diego forward," he said.</p>

<p>Maradona has been admitted to hospital three times in the last 20 years for serious health issues -- two of which were potentially fatal -- due to his drug and alcohol addictions.</p>

<p>Now free of drugs, Maradona remains dependent on alcohol.</p>

<p>Last week, his doctor had said the football star would require prolonged treatment in a clinic with different specialties than the current one.</p>

<p>Maradona's daughters Dalma, Giannina and Jana visit him daily at the clinic.</p>

<p>His oldest son, Diego Jr, who lives in Italy, announced last Thursday on social media that he had tested positive for Covid-19 and therefore would not be able to travel to Buenos Aires.</p>


Argentine football great Diego Maradona is progressing well after brain surgery on a blood clot and could be discharged this week, his doctor said Monday. Maradona, 60, underwent surgery last Tuesday to remove a clot lodged between his brain and skull.

Argentine football great Diego Maradona is progressing well after brain surgery on a blood clot and could be discharged this week, his doctor said Monday. Maradona, 60, underwent surgery last Tuesday to remove a clot lodged between his brain and skull. "Diego is in the mood to leave, and we are evaluating the discharge that could be tomorrow or probably Wednesday, we have to see the clinical parameters, but the progress is very good," Leopoldo Luque told reporters. Maradona, who went into isolation two weeks ago after one of his bodyguards displayed coronavirus symptoms, had looked unwell during a brief appearance on October 30 at his 60th birthday celebration at the stadium of Gimnasia y Esgrima, the Argentine Primera Division team he coaches. He seemed to have difficulty walking and did not hang around to watch his side's match. The following Monday, he was taken to hospital in La Plata, where the club is based, suffering from symptoms of anemia and dehydration. Tests revealed the blood clot, after which Maradona was transferred to a specialist clinic in the capital. Since his surgery, he has progressed well, although Luque had revealed Thursday that Maradona was receiving intensive treatment and sedatives for withdrawal symptoms. This treatment began to be scaled back on Monday. Luque also played down a rumor cited by local press about the presence of a Covid-19 patient in the clinic. "Covid is everywhere, there is nothing here that there is not elsewhere, and the care and protocols are followed to perfection," he said. Luque also avoided specifying where Maradona will recuperate once he is discharged. "We will discuss these issues when the time comes, we will discuss them together with the family. We all agree to take Diego forward," he said. Maradona has been admitted to hospital three times in the last 20 years for serious health issues -- two of which were potentially fatal -- due to his drug and alcohol addictions. Now free of drugs, Maradona remains dependent on alcohol. Last week, his doctor had said the football star would require prolonged treatment in a clinic with different specialties than the current one. Maradona's daughters Dalma, Giannina and Jana visit him daily at the clinic. His oldest son, Diego Jr, who lives in Italy, announced last Thursday on social media that he had tested positive for Covid-19 and therefore would not be able to travel to Buenos Aires.

Maradona progressing well after brain surgery

<p>Argentine football legend Diego Maradona has commenced his recovery process after ‘successful’ surgery to treat a subdural hematoma, a blood clot on the brain. Maradona, who was admitted to hospital a day earlier, was operated to address the clot, which is often caused by a head injury can put pressure on the brain.</p>

<p>“The operation proceeded normally and without complications and was successful,” a source close to the World Cup-winner told Reuters, adding that the diagnosis was a chronic subdural hematoma. The person did not give details on the potential recovery period.</p>

<p>However, the operation was risky due to Maradona’s delicate general health and lasted about two hours. It was carried out by a team led by Leopoldo Luque, Maradona’s neurosurgeon and personal physician.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-rekindle-last-16-hopes-with-3-2-win-over-inter-340424" hreflang="en">Real Madrid rekindle last-16 hopes with 3-2 win over Inter</a></strong></p>

<p>Earlier, Luque had said that the procedure was a “routine surgery” and Maradona had been “lucid” and agreed with the procedure after understanding the plan.</p>

<p>Maradona was admitted to the Ipensa clinic in La Plata, Argentina, on Monday for anaemia and dehydration before being shifted to Olivos Clinic in Buenos Aires.</p>

<p>Fans gathered around Olivos Clinic and celebrated when reports of the successful operation started to emerge as they chanted: “Diego, Diego!”</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/city-in-charge-of-group-c-after-3-0-win-over-olympiakos-340425" hreflang="en">City in charge of Group C after 3-0 win over Olympiakos</a></strong></p>

<p>Maradona is regarded as one of the greatest players of all time and won the World Cup with Argentina in 1986. He is currently the coach of local club Gimnasia y Esgrima. Maradona’s last public appearance as on his 60th birthday, last Friday, ahead of his side’s league game against Patronato.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What we want the most is for Diego to get out of all this. He can be, he is the greatest, the greatest in the world,” said Diego Bermudez, 41, a Maradona fan waiting outside the hospital.</p>

<p>Another fan, Oscar Medina, said: “Diego is fighting inside with medics. Hopefully, God blesses the medics, to move on from this. His people are out here on the street, hearts beating.”</p>


Argentine football legend Diego Maradona has commenced his recovery process after ‘successful’ surgery to treat a subdural hematoma, a blood clot on the brain. Maradona, who was admitted to hospital a day earlier, was operated to address the clot, which is often caused by a head injury can put pressure on the brain.

Argentine football legend Diego Maradona has commenced his recovery process after ‘successful’ surgery to treat a subdural hematoma, a blood clot on the brain. Maradona, who was admitted to hospital a day earlier, was operated to address the clot, which is often caused by a head injury can put pressure on the brain. “The operation proceeded normally and without complications and was successful,” a source close to the World Cup-winner told Reuters, adding that the diagnosis was a chronic subdural hematoma. The person did not give details on the potential recovery period. However, the operation was risky due to Maradona’s delicate general health and lasted about two hours. It was carried out by a team led by Leopoldo Luque, Maradona’s neurosurgeon and personal physician. ALSO READ: Real Madrid rekindle last-16 hopes with 3-2 win over Inter Earlier, Luque had said that the procedure was a “routine surgery” and Maradona had been “lucid” and agreed with the procedure after understanding the plan. Maradona was admitted to the Ipensa clinic in La Plata, Argentina, on Monday for anaemia and dehydration before being shifted to Olivos Clinic in Buenos Aires. Fans gathered around Olivos Clinic and celebrated when reports of the successful operation started to emerge as they chanted: “Diego, Diego!” ALSO READ: City in charge of Group C after 3-0 win over Olympiakos Maradona is regarded as one of the greatest players of all time and won the World Cup with Argentina in 1986. He is currently the coach of local club Gimnasia y Esgrima. Maradona’s last public appearance as on his 60th birthday, last Friday, ahead of his side’s league game against Patronato. “What we want the most is for Diego to get out of all this. He can be, he is the greatest, the greatest in the world,” said Diego Bermudez, 41, a Maradona fan waiting outside the hospital. Another fan, Oscar Medina, said: “Diego is fighting inside with medics. Hopefully, God blesses the medics, to move on from this. His people are out here on the street, hearts beating.”

Diego Maradona in recovery after 'successful' brain surgery

<p>Diego Maradona reveals he has a dream present to mark his 60th birthday on Friday - "to score another goal against England, this time with my right hand".</p>

<p>The Argentine legend made the impish suggestion in an interview with France Football in reference to his 'Hand of God' goal against England in the 1986 World Cup quarter-finals, with Argentina going on to take the title.</p>

<p>In the past when asked about the handball he has said: "If I could&nbsp;apologise&nbsp;and go back and change history I would do. But the goal is still a goal, Argentina became world champions and I was the best player in the world."&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked what he dreams about these days, he says: "I dream of being able to score another goal agaist the English, with the right hand this time."</p>

<p>In a more serious vein in Wednesday's interview he suggested his greatest pride was "to have made people happy through football".</p>

<p>"I feel that I've given pleasure and amusement to those who watched me in the stadiums or on television," the Argentine legend told France Football.</p>

<p>Maradona's birthday celebrations may be compromised as he is currently in self-isolation after a bodyguard tested positive for Covid-19.</p>

<p>The pandemic he says "is a real hard blow for the people of Latin America".</p>

<p>Maradona, who has a history of drug and alcohol abuse and poor health, is considered at high risk of coronavirus complications should he be infected.</p>

<p>He has suffered two heart attacks in the past and contracted hepatitis.</p>

<p>Several weeks ago he went into self-isolation after one of his players contracted the virus with Argentina alone recording more than a million positive cases amongst its 44 million population with 29,000 deaths.</p>

<p>His latest job since hanging up his boots sees him in the post of manager of Argentin first division side Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata, who are due to play on the day of his birthday</p>

<p>In what is presented as his first interview in French media for 25 years Maradona suggests Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo "are a cut above the other" players around at the moment.</p>

<p>"Not one is able to do half of what they can," he said.</p>


Diego Maradona reveals he has a dream present to mark his 60th birthday on Friday - "to score another goal against England, this time with my right hand". The Argentine legend made the impish suggestion in an interview with France Football in reference to his 'Hand of God' goal against England in the 1986 World Cup quarter-finals, with Argentina going on to take the title.

Diego Maradona reveals he has a dream present to mark his 60th birthday on Friday - "to score another goal against England, this time with my right hand". The Argentine legend made the impish suggestion in an interview with France Football in reference to his 'Hand of God' goal against England in the 1986 World Cup quarter-finals, with Argentina going on to take the title. In the past when asked about the handball he has said: "If I could apologise and go back and change history I would do. But the goal is still a goal, Argentina became world champions and I was the best player in the world." When asked what he dreams about these days, he says: "I dream of being able to score another goal agaist the English, with the right hand this time." In a more serious vein in Wednesday's interview he suggested his greatest pride was "to have made people happy through football". "I feel that I've given pleasure and amusement to those who watched me in the stadiums or on television," the Argentine legend told France Football. Maradona's birthday celebrations may be compromised as he is currently in self-isolation after a bodyguard tested positive for Covid-19. The pandemic he says "is a real hard blow for the people of Latin America". Maradona, who has a history of drug and alcohol abuse and poor health, is considered at high risk of coronavirus complications should he be infected. He has suffered two heart attacks in the past and contracted hepatitis. Several weeks ago he went into self-isolation after one of his players contracted the virus with Argentina alone recording more than a million positive cases amongst its 44 million population with 29,000 deaths. His latest job since hanging up his boots sees him in the post of manager of Argentin first division side Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata, who are due to play on the day of his birthday In what is presented as his first interview in French media for 25 years Maradona suggests Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo "are a cut above the other" players around at the moment. "Not one is able to do half of what they can," he said.

Hand of God 'with my right' - Maradona's dream 60th birthday gift

<p>Craig Mokhiber, director of the New York office of the UN High Commissioner for human rights, has stepped down from his position after protesting what he has called a "text book case of genocide" in the Gaza Strip. As reported by multiple media outlets, Mokhiber has said this in his resignation letter in addition to other serious assertions.</p>

<p>Saying that this will be his last communication to UN High Commissioner in Geneva Volker Turk, Mokhiber has said that the United Nations was "failing" to do its duty as Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip continues.</p>

<p>He alleged that the US, the UK and large number of countries in Europe were "wholly complicit in the horrific assault". Mokhiber wrote to the UN high commissioner on October 28.</p>

<p>“Once again we are seeing a genocide unfolding before our eyes and the organization we serve appears powerless to stop it,” he said as reported by The Guardian.</p>

<p>In his letter, Mokhiber also said the there have been number of occasions in past when the United Nations has failed to stop a genocide mentioning the Rwandan genocide, Muslims in Bosnia, Yazidis in Iraqi Kurdistan and Rohingya in Myanmar.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Humanitarian crisis worsen, how much water and power does Gaza have?</strong></p>

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<p>“The current wholesale slaughter of the Palestinian people, rooted in an ethno-nationalist colonial settler ideology, in continuation of decades of their systematic persecution and purging, based entirely upon their status as Arabs … leaves no room for doubt.”</p>

<p>Mokhiber stated that not only the West was "refusing to meet their treaty obligation" under Geneva Conventions but were also arming Israel in addition to providing political and diplomatic cover.</p>

<p>“We must support the establishment of a single, democratic secular state in all of historic Palestine, with equal rights for Christians, Muslims, and Jews,” he wrote, adding: “and, therefore, the dismantling of the deeply racist, settler-colonial project and an end to apartheid across the land.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/15-anti-israel-protesters-jailed-over-anti-israel-riot-at-russian-airport-653986">15 anti-Israel protesters jailed over riots at Russian airport</a></strong></p>

<p>Mokhiber has been part of the UN since 1992. He served in a number of prominent roles. He has served as a senior human rights adviser in Palestine, Afghanistan and Sudan..</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-chief-ismail-haniyeh-says-massacre-by-israel-is-to-hide-its-setback-654021">Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh says 'massacre' by Israel is to hide its setback</a></strong></p>

<p>The resignation letter has expectedly stirred conversation on social media. Several journalists and academics have begun posting the resignation letter on social media platforms like X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Guardian has quoted a UN spokesperson who said that these were Mokhiber's "personal views".</p>

<p>“I can confirm that he is retiring today. He informed the UN in March 2023 of his upcoming retirement, which takes effect tomorrow. The views in his letter made public today are his personal views,” said the spokesperson.</p>


Craig Mokhiber, director of the New York office of the UN High Commissioner for human rights, has stepped down from his position after protesting what he has called a "text book case of genocide" in the Gaza Strip.

Craig Mokhiber, director of the New York office of the UN High Commissioner for human rights, has stepped down from his position after protesting what he has called a "text book case of genocide" in the Gaza Strip. As reported by multiple media outlets, Mokhiber has said this in his resignation letter in addition to other serious assertions. Saying that this will be his last communication to UN High Commissioner in Geneva Volker Turk, Mokhiber has said that the United Nations was "failing" to do its duty as Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip continues. He alleged that the US, the UK and large number of countries in Europe were "wholly complicit in the horrific assault". Mokhiber wrote to the UN high commissioner on October 28. “Once again we are seeing a genocide unfolding before our eyes and the organization we serve appears powerless to stop it,” he said as reported by The Guardian. In his letter, Mokhiber also said the there have been number of occasions in past when the United Nations has failed to stop a genocide mentioning the Rwandan genocide, Muslims in Bosnia, Yazidis in Iraqi Kurdistan and Rohingya in Myanmar. Watch | Humanitarian crisis worsen, how much water and power does Gaza have? × “The current wholesale slaughter of the Palestinian people, rooted in an ethno-nationalist colonial settler ideology, in continuation of decades of their systematic persecution and purging, based entirely upon their status as Arabs … leaves no room for doubt.” Mokhiber stated that not only the West was "refusing to meet their treaty obligation" under Geneva Conventions but were also arming Israel in addition to providing political and diplomatic cover. “We must support the establishment of a single, democratic secular state in all of historic Palestine, with equal rights for Christians, Muslims, and Jews,” he wrote, adding: “and, therefore, the dismantling of the deeply racist, settler-colonial project and an end to apartheid across the land.” Also Read | 15 anti-Israel protesters jailed over riots at Russian airport Mokhiber has been part of the UN since 1992. He served in a number of prominent roles. He has served as a senior human rights adviser in Palestine, Afghanistan and Sudan.. Also Read | Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh says 'massacre' by Israel is to hide its setback The resignation letter has expectedly stirred conversation on social media. Several journalists and academics have begun posting the resignation letter on social media platforms like X. The Guardian has quoted a UN spokesperson who said that these were Mokhiber's "personal views". “I can confirm that he is retiring today. He informed the UN in March 2023 of his upcoming retirement, which takes effect tomorrow. The views in his letter made public today are his personal views,” said the spokesperson.

Pele's last Number 10 Brazil jersey sold for 30,000 euros in Italy

<p>Some 25,000 Argentine soccer fans on Sunday cheered the country's legendary World Cup winner Diego Maradona as he kicked off his new role as coach of the local club Gimnasia y Esgrima to revive the struggling team.</p>

<p>"We are going to get ahead together," the 58-year-old former striker told fans at a stadium in the city of La Plata just outside Buenos Aires on his first day of training with the team known as "El Lobo," or The Wolf.</p>

<p>Maradona, widely considered to be one of the greatest players of all time, was hired to turn around the fortunes of Gimnasia, which was formed in 1887 and has won just one professional title, the Copa Centenario, in 1993. It is now last in its division and is struggling not to slip into a lower category.</p>

<p>Some 500 limited-edition shirts with Maradona's former number 10 sold out in a few hours, the club said.</p>

<p>Since talks between Gimnasia and Maradona began, thousands of fans have lined up in front of the club's headquarters to register as members and to secure a spot in matches.</p>

<p>Maradona most recently coached in Mexico, where he led second division side Dorados of Sinaloa to two unsuccessful playoff appearances.</p>


Some 25,000 Argentine soccer fans on Sunday cheered the country's legendary World Cup winner Diego Maradona as he kicked off his new role as coach of the local club Gimnasia y Esgrima to revive the struggling team.

Some 25,000 Argentine soccer fans on Sunday cheered the country's legendary World Cup winner Diego Maradona as he kicked off his new role as coach of the local club Gimnasia y Esgrima to revive the struggling team. "We are going to get ahead together," the 58-year-old former striker told fans at a stadium in the city of La Plata just outside Buenos Aires on his first day of training with the team known as "El Lobo," or The Wolf. Maradona, widely considered to be one of the greatest players of all time, was hired to turn around the fortunes of Gimnasia, which was formed in 1887 and has won just one professional title, the Copa Centenario, in 1993. It is now last in its division and is struggling not to slip into a lower category. Some 500 limited-edition shirts with Maradona's former number 10 sold out in a few hours, the club said. Since talks between Gimnasia and Maradona began, thousands of fans have lined up in front of the club's headquarters to register as members and to secure a spot in matches. Maradona most recently coached in Mexico, where he led second division side Dorados of Sinaloa to two unsuccessful playoff appearances.

Argentines welcome Maradona as coach of local club Gimnasia y Esgrima

Oscar-winning director Asif Kapadia says he wants to show a balanced version of Diego Maradona in his latest documentary.

'Amy' director Asif Kapadia hopes audiences will have more empathy for Maradona after watching his latest documentary

<p>Diego Maradona wished his fellow living legend Pele a speedy recovery Wednesday, posting a picture on Instagram of the two football greats in 1979.</p>

<p>"This picture is 40 years old today. It was taken in Rio de Janeiro, when we met each other in person. How young we were.... I wish you a very speedy recovery, King @Pele," said the Argentine great, currently the coach of Mexican second-division club Dorados.</p>

<p>The picture shows an 18-year-old Maradona, his face aglow, watching Pele, then 38, play the guitar.</p>

<p>The two players are often cited as rivals for the title of greatest footballer of all time, fueling the larger and never-ending rivalry between Brazil and Argentina.</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BwDkBQwlmvA/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading&amp;utm_campaign=embed_locale_test" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Hoy esta foto cumplió 40 años. Fue en Río de Janeiro, cuando nos conocimos personalmente. Qué jóvenes que estábamos... Te deseo una muy pronta recuperación Rey @Pele, mucha fuerza!!! ⚽️💪</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/maradona/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_medium=loading&amp;utm_campaign=embed_locale_test" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Diego Maradona</a> (@maradona) on <time datetime="2019-04-10T00:55:38+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Apr 9, 2019 at 5:55pm PDT</time></p>
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<p>Pele, now 78, returned to his native Brazil Tuesday after being hospitalized six days in Paris for a severe urinary infection. Exiting the airport in a wheelchair, he was taken to a hospital in Sao Paulo, where he was placed under observation.</p>

<p>Pele, the only footballer to win three World Cups (1958, 1962 and 1970), has suffered from increasingly fragile health in recent years.</p>

<p>In 2014, he was hospitalized in intensive care for another urinary tract infection, for which he had to undergo dialysis.&nbsp;</p>


Diego Maradona wished his fellow living legend Pele a speedy recovery Wednesday, posting a picture on Instagram of the two football greats in 1979. "This picture is 40 years old today.

Diego Maradona wished his fellow living legend Pele a speedy recovery Wednesday, posting a picture on Instagram of the two football greats in 1979. "This picture is 40 years old today. It was taken in Rio de Janeiro, when we met each other in person. How young we were.... I wish you a very speedy recovery, King @Pele," said the Argentine great, currently the coach of Mexican second-division club Dorados. The picture shows an 18-year-old Maradona, his face aglow, watching Pele, then 38, play the guitar. The two players are often cited as rivals for the title of greatest footballer of all time, fueling the larger and never-ending rivalry between Brazil and Argentina. View this post on Instagram Hoy esta foto cumplió 40 años. Fue en Río de Janeiro, cuando nos conocimos personalmente. Qué jóvenes que estábamos... Te deseo una muy pronta recuperación Rey @Pele, mucha fuerza!!! ⚽️💪 A post shared by Diego Maradona (@maradona) on Apr 9, 2019 at 5:55pm PDT × Pele, now 78, returned to his native Brazil Tuesday after being hospitalized six days in Paris for a severe urinary infection. Exiting the airport in a wheelchair, he was taken to a hospital in Sao Paulo, where he was placed under observation. Pele, the only footballer to win three World Cups (1958, 1962 and 1970), has suffered from increasingly fragile health in recent years. In 2014, he was hospitalized in intensive care for another urinary tract infection, for which he had to undergo dialysis.

Diego Maradona posts a throwback picture with Pele, wishes him 'speedy recovery'

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/diego-maradona-to-legally-recognize-three-children-he-has-in-cuba-argentine-lawyer-202215">Diego Maradona</a> has been fined for dedicating a recent victory by his Mexican club to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Mexico's football federation said on Monday.</p>

<p>The Argentine great, who coaches Dorados de Sinaloa, had dedicated a 3-2 win over Tampico Madero to Maduro and Venezuela in a news conference at the end of last month.</p>

<p>The body said in a statement that Maradona had been fined an unspecified sum for violating the federation's code of ethics which mandates political neutrality.</p>

<p>Maradona had said he was dedicating the victory to Maduro and Venezuelans caught up in an economic crisis. He also criticized U.S. President Donald Trump.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Diego Maradona has been fined for dedicating a recent victory by his Mexican club to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Mexico's football federation said on Monday.

Diego Maradona has been fined for dedicating a recent victory by his Mexican club to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Mexico's football federation said on Monday. The Argentine great, who coaches Dorados de Sinaloa, had dedicated a 3-2 win over Tampico Madero to Maduro and Venezuela in a news conference at the end of last month. The body said in a statement that Maradona had been fined an unspecified sum for violating the federation's code of ethics which mandates political neutrality. Maradona had said he was dedicating the victory to Maduro and Venezuelans caught up in an economic crisis. He also criticized U.S. President Donald Trump.

Soccer: Maradona fined after dedicating win to Venezuela's Maduro

<p>Diego Maradona has been fined for dedicating a recent victory by his Mexican club to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Mexico's football federation said on Monday.</p>

<p>The Argentine great, who coaches Dorados de Sinaloa, had dedicated a 3-2 win over Tampico Madero to Maduro and Venezuela in a news conference at the end of last month.</p>

<p>The body said in a statement that Maradona had been fined an unspecified sum for violating the federation's code of ethics which mandates political neutrality.</p>

<p>Maradona had said he was dedicating the victory to Maduro and Venezuelans caught up in an economic crisis. He also criticized U.S. President Donald Trump.</p>


Diego Maradona fined after dedicating win to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro

<p>The Mexican Football Federation said Wednesday it has opened an investigation into whether Diego Maradona violated its ethics code when he praised Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro after a recent match.</p>

<p>Maradona, the coach of Mexican second-division side Dorados, triggered the controversy -- the latest in a long line for the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-goes-to-bathroom-20-times-before-a-game-says-maradona-171360"> Argentine legend</a> -- with his comments during a post-match press conference Sunday, following his club's 3-2 win over Tampico Madero.</p>

<p>"I want to dedicate this victory to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-blames-us-weapons-for-massive-blackout-202264">Nicolas Maduro</a> and all Venezuelans, who are suffering," he said.</p>

<p>"These Yankees (the United States), the sheriffs of the world, think just because they have the world's biggest bomb they can push us around. But no, not us."</p>

<p>Maradona is close to Maduro, the embattled leftist leader who has presided over a spiralling political and economic crisis in Venezuela.</p>

<p>The United States has led more than 50 countries in recognizing opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuela's acting president, calling Maduro's May re-election illegitimate.</p>

<p>Maradona, who has been close with a string of Latin American leftist leaders -- once calling Cuba's Fidel Castro a "second father" -- went on to criticize US President Donald Trump, comparing him to a blond-haired puppet named Chirolita who was popular on Argentine TV in the 1970s.</p>

<p>"This Chirolita they have for president can't buy us," he said.</p>

<p>The Mexican Football Federation said in a statement its disciplinary committee had opened an investigation over the comments "for an alleged infraction of articles 6, 7, 9, 10 and 11 of the FMF ethics code."</p>

<p>Article 7 of that code calls on those affiliated with the federation to "maintain a neutral stance on political and religious matters."</p>

<p>Maradona, who won the World Cup with Argentina in 1986, is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But he is also known for leading a life as colourful off the pitch as on it, publicly battling drug addiction, alcoholism, obesity and countless scandals.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Mexican Football Federation said Wednesday it has opened an investigation into whether Diego Maradona violated its ethics code when he praised Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro after a recent match.

The Mexican Football Federation said Wednesday it has opened an investigation into whether Diego Maradona violated its ethics code when he praised Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro after a recent match. Maradona, the coach of Mexican second-division side Dorados, triggered the controversy -- the latest in a long line for the Argentine legend -- with his comments during a post-match press conference Sunday, following his club's 3-2 win over Tampico Madero. "I want to dedicate this victory to Nicolas Maduro and all Venezuelans, who are suffering," he said. "These Yankees (the United States), the sheriffs of the world, think just because they have the world's biggest bomb they can push us around. But no, not us." Maradona is close to Maduro, the embattled leftist leader who has presided over a spiralling political and economic crisis in Venezuela. The United States has led more than 50 countries in recognizing opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuela's acting president, calling Maduro's May re-election illegitimate. Maradona, who has been close with a string of Latin American leftist leaders -- once calling Cuba's Fidel Castro a "second father" -- went on to criticize US President Donald Trump, comparing him to a blond-haired puppet named Chirolita who was popular on Argentine TV in the 1970s. "This Chirolita they have for president can't buy us," he said. The Mexican Football Federation said in a statement its disciplinary committee had opened an investigation over the comments "for an alleged infraction of articles 6, 7, 9, 10 and 11 of the FMF ethics code." Article 7 of that code calls on those affiliated with the federation to "maintain a neutral stance on political and religious matters." Maradona, who won the World Cup with Argentina in 1986, is considered one of the greatest footballers of all time. But he is also known for leading a life as colourful off the pitch as on it, publicly battling drug addiction, alcoholism, obesity and countless scandals.

Maradona under investigation after he praises President Maduro

<p>Argentina's 1986 World Cup football winning captain Diego Maradona has three children in Cuba and will travel to the country to legally recognise them, his lawyer told Argentine media.</p>

<p>Maradona, 58, now a technical director at Mexican club Dorados de Sinaloa, has five children from other relationships with different women.</p>

<p>Lawyer Matias Morla said that Maradona would travel to Cuba in the middle of the year and would do paternity tests.</p>

<p>"We are going to do the DNA tests. They are from different women and Diego will recognise them when he returns to Cuba," Morla told Argentine newspaper Clarín.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said he was in contact with the children. He did not identify them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The lawyer said that the claims were going through the Cuban legal system but that Maradona, one of the greatest football players of all time, planned to give the children his surname in the near future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maradona spent four years in Havana from 2000 to shake an addiction to drugs. Cuba has strict penalties for drug possession and is known in the region for deploying doctors and humanitarian aid to countries in need.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During that time, he developed an unlikely friendship with Fidel Castro, including getting a tattoo of the late Cuban revolutionary's face on his calf. Castro would call on him early in the morning to talk about politics or sports and encourage him to push toward a full recovery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, with no press hounding him, Maradona enjoyed Havana's night-life and frequented its best clubs. After his marriage broke up, he was frequently seen with teenage Cuban women, sometimes one on each arm.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Morla has previously said that Maradona could have more children from his time in Cuba. "I'm afraid of Cuba, I hope it's one (child) ... he was there a long time, he was single and behaved badly," he said on a television show last year.&nbsp;</p>


Argentina's 1986 World Cup football winning captain Diego Maradona has three children in Cuba and will travel to the country to legally recognise them, his lawyer told Argentine media.

Argentina's 1986 World Cup football winning captain Diego Maradona has three children in Cuba and will travel to the country to legally recognise them, his lawyer told Argentine media. Maradona, 58, now a technical director at Mexican club Dorados de Sinaloa, has five children from other relationships with different women. Lawyer Matias Morla said that Maradona would travel to Cuba in the middle of the year and would do paternity tests. "We are going to do the DNA tests. They are from different women and Diego will recognise them when he returns to Cuba," Morla told Argentine newspaper Clarín. He said he was in contact with the children. He did not identify them. The lawyer said that the claims were going through the Cuban legal system but that Maradona, one of the greatest football players of all time, planned to give the children his surname in the near future. Maradona spent four years in Havana from 2000 to shake an addiction to drugs. Cuba has strict penalties for drug possession and is known in the region for deploying doctors and humanitarian aid to countries in need. During that time, he developed an unlikely friendship with Fidel Castro, including getting a tattoo of the late Cuban revolutionary's face on his calf. Castro would call on him early in the morning to talk about politics or sports and encourage him to push toward a full recovery. However, with no press hounding him, Maradona enjoyed Havana's night-life and frequented its best clubs. After his marriage broke up, he was frequently seen with teenage Cuban women, sometimes one on each arm. Morla has previously said that Maradona could have more children from his time in Cuba. "I'm afraid of Cuba, I hope it's one (child) ... he was there a long time, he was single and behaved badly," he said on a television show last year.

Diego Maradona to legally recognise three children he has in Cuba: Argentine lawyer

<p>Former Argentine football player Diego Maradona was admitted to a clinic in Buenos Aires on Saturday (January 12) for a scheduled surgery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 58-year-old Maradona was diagnosed with a health problem in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/diego-maradona-out-of-hospital-after-internal-bleeding-scare-188335">early January during routine exams</a> performed at the same hospital in the town of Olivos.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was preparing to travel to Mexico to take over the technical management of the Dorados de Sinaloa football club.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is bleeding due to a hernia. It is not complicated at all," a source told Reuters on Saturday, adding: "With this, he hopes to solve some of the inconveniences that he usually has."</p>

<p>Late on Saturday, Maradona's lawyer Matias Morla reported that the operation was a success.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maradona suffered frequent periods in hospitals over the years, often due to the extravagant lifestyle that helped make him one of the most admired and iconic footballers of the 20th century.</p>

<p>He last fell ill at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where he was filmed passing out in an executive box at the Argentina-Nigeria game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He was taken into hospital in 2004 with severe heart and respiratory problems linked to cocaine use.</p>

<p>Argentine legend later underwent drug rehabilitation in Cuba and Argentina before a stomach-stapling operation in 2005 helped him lose weight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2007 he checked himself into a clinic in Buenos Aires to help him overcome alcohol abuse problems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In recent months he has walked with the aid of crutches due to problems with his knees.</p>


Former Argentine football player Diego Maradona was admitted to a clinic in Buenos Aires on Saturday (January 12) for a scheduled surgery. The 58-year-old Maradona was diagnosed with a health problem in early January during routine exams performed at the same hospital in the town of Olivos.

Former Argentine football player Diego Maradona was admitted to a clinic in Buenos Aires on Saturday (January 12) for a scheduled surgery. The 58-year-old Maradona was diagnosed with a health problem in early January during routine exams performed at the same hospital in the town of Olivos. He was preparing to travel to Mexico to take over the technical management of the Dorados de Sinaloa football club. "It is bleeding due to a hernia. It is not complicated at all," a source told Reuters on Saturday, adding: "With this, he hopes to solve some of the inconveniences that he usually has." Late on Saturday, Maradona's lawyer Matias Morla reported that the operation was a success. Maradona suffered frequent periods in hospitals over the years, often due to the extravagant lifestyle that helped make him one of the most admired and iconic footballers of the 20th century. He last fell ill at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where he was filmed passing out in an executive box at the Argentina-Nigeria game. He was taken into hospital in 2004 with severe heart and respiratory problems linked to cocaine use. Argentine legend later underwent drug rehabilitation in Cuba and Argentina before a stomach-stapling operation in 2005 helped him lose weight. In 2007 he checked himself into a clinic in Buenos Aires to help him overcome alcohol abuse problems. In recent months he has walked with the aid of crutches due to problems with his knees.

Diego Maradona admitted to hospital for scheduled surgery

<p>Argentine soccer great Diego Maradona was released from hospital after being admitted earlier on Friday with internal bleeding in the stomach which was discovered during routine examinations, his daughter Dalma said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"For those who were really worried about my dad I can tell you that he is well," Dalma wrote on twitter after fears over her father’s health spread. "He is going home soon."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 58-year-old was having a routine medical in his homeland before returning to Mexico, where he is coach of second division side Dorados de Sinaloa, when doctors discovered the problem.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, a source close to the family told Reuters the problem was not serious and that the former Boca Juniors, Napoli and Barcelona midfielder, who famously led his country to the 1986 World Cup title, was not in any danger.</p>

<p>Another source said Maradona, who left the hospital without talking to the media, may have to undergo more tests.</p>

<p>Friday's scare was the latest for Maradona, who has suffered frequent periods in hospital over the years, often due to the extravagant lifestyle that helped make him one of the most admired and iconic footballers of the 20th century.</p>

<p>He last fell ill at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where he was filmed passing out in an executive box at the Argentina-Nigeria game. Argentina won 2-1 to reach the last 16, where they were knocked out of the tournament by eventual winners France.</p>

<p>Maradona was taken into hospital in 2004 with severe heart and respiratory problems linked to cocaine use. He later underwent drug rehabilitation in Cuba and Argentina before a stomach-stapling operation in 2005 helped him lose weight.</p>

<p>In 2007 he checked himself into a clinic in Buenos Aires to help him overcome alcohol abuse problems.</p>

<p>In recent months he has walked with the aid of crutches due to problems with his knees.</p>

<p>The unexpected news of his admittance to hospital on Friday came just hours after Maradona’s lawyer confirmed he would coach in Mexico for a second consecutive season.</p>

<p>Maradona took over at struggling Dorados de Sinaloa in September and got them into the playoffs where they lost to Atletico San Luis.</p>

<p>“Diego Maradona has arranged to continue with the Dorados de Sinaloa and will stay as coach of the team for the whole season,” his agent Matias Morla wrote on twitter.</p>

<p>The club said his assistant Jose Maria Martinez would lead the team until Maradona returned.</p>


Argentine soccer great Diego Maradona was released from hospital after being admitted earlier on Friday with internal bleeding in the stomach which was discovered during routine examinations, his daughter Dalma said.

Argentine soccer great Diego Maradona was released from hospital after being admitted earlier on Friday with internal bleeding in the stomach which was discovered during routine examinations, his daughter Dalma said. "For those who were really worried about my dad I can tell you that he is well," Dalma wrote on twitter after fears over her father’s health spread. "He is going home soon." The 58-year-old was having a routine medical in his homeland before returning to Mexico, where he is coach of second division side Dorados de Sinaloa, when doctors discovered the problem. However, a source close to the family told Reuters the problem was not serious and that the former Boca Juniors, Napoli and Barcelona midfielder, who famously led his country to the 1986 World Cup title, was not in any danger. Another source said Maradona, who left the hospital without talking to the media, may have to undergo more tests. Friday's scare was the latest for Maradona, who has suffered frequent periods in hospital over the years, often due to the extravagant lifestyle that helped make him one of the most admired and iconic footballers of the 20th century. He last fell ill at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where he was filmed passing out in an executive box at the Argentina-Nigeria game. Argentina won 2-1 to reach the last 16, where they were knocked out of the tournament by eventual winners France. Maradona was taken into hospital in 2004 with severe heart and respiratory problems linked to cocaine use. He later underwent drug rehabilitation in Cuba and Argentina before a stomach-stapling operation in 2005 helped him lose weight. In 2007 he checked himself into a clinic in Buenos Aires to help him overcome alcohol abuse problems. In recent months he has walked with the aid of crutches due to problems with his knees. The unexpected news of his admittance to hospital on Friday came just hours after Maradona’s lawyer confirmed he would coach in Mexico for a second consecutive season. Maradona took over at struggling Dorados de Sinaloa in September and got them into the playoffs where they lost to Atletico San Luis. “Diego Maradona has arranged to continue with the Dorados de Sinaloa and will stay as coach of the team for the whole season,” his agent Matias Morla wrote on twitter. The club said his assistant Jose Maria Martinez would lead the team until Maradona returned.

Diego Maradona out of hospital after internal bleeding scare

<p>Argentine soccer legend Diego Maradona said his country's national team was going nowhere under the guidance of current caretaker head coach Lionel Scaloni.</p>

<p>Maradona, who has coached Mexican second-division club Dorados de Sonora to the semi-finals of the Apertura 2018 championship, the first of the 2018-2019 season, lamented that one Argentine manager he respects, Gerardo Martino, is expected to be signed by Mexico's national team.</p>

<p>Martino has led Atlanta United to the semi-finals of the 2018 MLS Cup Playoffs but has opted not to return to that team next season.</p>

<p>"I played with 'Tata' Martino at (Argentine club) Newell's (Old Boys), and he's a great person. They're now talking about him in Mexico, and we Argentines have this kid Lionel Scaloni. It's not his fault he's there, but the problem is he thinks he's a coach and wants to go to the World Cup. He can go, but to the motorcycle World Cup, not the soccer one," he said.</p>

<p>Maradona said it was particularly frustrating considering that Argentina has a lot of astute coaching minds.</p>

<p>"It's not easy to lead Mexico. Martino's going to have it tough. But in Argentina, we're so bad off that we're flailing around even though we have Cesar Luis Menotti, Ricardo Gareca, Gustavo Alfaro, Marcelo Gallardo, Guillermo Barros Schelotto. We have a bunch of good coaches and there Scaloni is," he said.</p>

<p>Referring to Dorados' 2-0 home victory over Juarez in Wednesday night's first leg of their semi-final series, Maradona said he was grateful that his team was one step closer to the Apertura title.</p>

<p>"Juarez and Dorados know each other well. We forced them to attack us in the second half and they weren't able to do it. On Saturday we'll play them based on the flaws we've seen. (Sinaloa assistant coach) Luis Islas and I have analyzed our opponent's strengths and weaknesses," he said.</p>


Argentine soccer legend Diego Maradona said his country's national team was going nowhere under the guidance of current caretaker head coach Lionel Scaloni. Maradona, who has coached Mexican second-division club Dorados de Sonora to the semi-finals of the Apertura 2018 championship, the first of the 2018-2019 season, lamented that one Argentine manager he respects, Gerardo Martino, is expected to be signed by Mexico's national team.

Argentine soccer legend Diego Maradona said his country's national team was going nowhere under the guidance of current caretaker head coach Lionel Scaloni. Maradona, who has coached Mexican second-division club Dorados de Sonora to the semi-finals of the Apertura 2018 championship, the first of the 2018-2019 season, lamented that one Argentine manager he respects, Gerardo Martino, is expected to be signed by Mexico's national team. Martino has led Atlanta United to the semi-finals of the 2018 MLS Cup Playoffs but has opted not to return to that team next season. "I played with 'Tata' Martino at (Argentine club) Newell's (Old Boys), and he's a great person. They're now talking about him in Mexico, and we Argentines have this kid Lionel Scaloni. It's not his fault he's there, but the problem is he thinks he's a coach and wants to go to the World Cup. He can go, but to the motorcycle World Cup, not the soccer one," he said. Maradona said it was particularly frustrating considering that Argentina has a lot of astute coaching minds. "It's not easy to lead Mexico. Martino's going to have it tough. But in Argentina, we're so bad off that we're flailing around even though we have Cesar Luis Menotti, Ricardo Gareca, Gustavo Alfaro, Marcelo Gallardo, Guillermo Barros Schelotto. We have a bunch of good coaches and there Scaloni is," he said. Referring to Dorados' 2-0 home victory over Juarez in Wednesday night's first leg of their semi-final series, Maradona said he was grateful that his team was one step closer to the Apertura title. "Juarez and Dorados know each other well. We forced them to attack us in the second half and they weren't able to do it. On Saturday we'll play them based on the flaws we've seen. (Sinaloa assistant coach) Luis Islas and I have analyzed our opponent's strengths and weaknesses," he said.

Argentine national team going nowhere with Scaloni as head coach: Diego Maradona

<p>Lionel Messi "is not a leader",&nbsp;said Diego Maradona of the current Argentina talisman in an interview in Mexico.</p>

<p>"It's useless to try and make a leader out of someone who goes to the bathroom 20 times before a game," Maradona said on Fox Sports.</p>

<p>"Before speaking to the coach and players he will be on the PlayStation. Then, on the field, he wants to be the leader," Maradona said as he answered questions in a stumbling voice, sometimes seeming to contradict himself.</p>

<p>"He is the best in the world along with Cristiano [Ronaldo]," &nbsp;Maradona said. "But he's not a leader."</p>

<p>Maradona, who led Argentina to victory in the 1986, said Messi, who was again unable to emulate that feat in Russia this summer was expected to be "the saviour of the fatherland."</p>

<p>"Let's stop making a god out of Messi. Messi is Messi for Barcelona, but playing in an Argentina shirt he is another Messi."</p>

<p>Maradona, who is in Mexico coaching second-division Sinaloa, said that if he was Argentina coach he would "not call on Messi" before adding "never say never."</p>

<p>"You have to take the leadership away for him to be the Messi we want him to be," Maradona said.</p>

<p>Messi, who is 31, has not played for Argentina in three low-key friendlies since a 4-3 loss to eventual champions France in the first knock-out round at the World Cup, but has not officially retired from the national team.&nbsp;</p>


Lionel Messi "is not a leader", said Diego Maradona of the current Argentina talisman in an interview in Mexico. "It's useless to try and make a leader out of someone who goes to the bathroom 20 times before a game," Maradona said on Fox Sports.

Lionel Messi "is not a leader", said Diego Maradona of the current Argentina talisman in an interview in Mexico. "It's useless to try and make a leader out of someone who goes to the bathroom 20 times before a game," Maradona said on Fox Sports. "Before speaking to the coach and players he will be on the PlayStation. Then, on the field, he wants to be the leader," Maradona said as he answered questions in a stumbling voice, sometimes seeming to contradict himself. "He is the best in the world along with Cristiano [Ronaldo]," Maradona said. "But he's not a leader." Maradona, who led Argentina to victory in the 1986, said Messi, who was again unable to emulate that feat in Russia this summer was expected to be "the saviour of the fatherland." "Let's stop making a god out of Messi. Messi is Messi for Barcelona, but playing in an Argentina shirt he is another Messi." Maradona, who is in Mexico coaching second-division Sinaloa, said that if he was Argentina coach he would "not call on Messi" before adding "never say never." "You have to take the leadership away for him to be the Messi we want him to be," Maradona said. Messi, who is 31, has not played for Argentina in three low-key friendlies since a 4-3 loss to eventual champions France in the first knock-out round at the World Cup, but has not officially retired from the national team.

Messi 'is not a leader', says Maradona

<p>Argentina football legend Diego Maradona, who is known for making controversial statements, on Tuesday suggested Lionel Messi to hang his boots.</p>

<p>Maradona reckoned that the Argentina striker should not bother coming back as he always gets the blame for everything.</p>

<p>When asked Maradona to clarify his statement, he said, "Yes, because if the U15 team loses, it’s Messi’s fault, an Argentina fixture messes up the domestic calendar for Racing against Boca and Messi is to blame. I’d say-Don’t play anymore, it’s crazy, but let’s see if they’re (AFA) brave,” Maradona said as per an online portal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Messi, who has scored 65 goals in 128 appearances since making his debut with Argentina in August 2005, has taken an indefinite leave of absence from international football.</p>

<p>When asked to comment, the retired striker, who coached Messi and Argentina from 2008 to 2010, was of the view that Messi should have broken his silence, post their elimination from the 2018 FIFA World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Yes, I wish he had sent us all to shit because he’s not to blame for not being world champion. Okay, we had all the hopes in him, but when you go to the racecourse you have the hope that your horse will win and it finishes eighth,” he said.</p>

<p>On the professional front, Maradona has recently been appointed as the coach of the Mexican professional football club, Dorados de Sinaloa.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Argentina football legend Diego Maradona, who is known for making controversial statements, on Tuesday suggested Lionel Messi to hang his boots. Maradona reckoned that the Argentina striker should not bother coming back as he always gets the blame for everything.

Argentina football legend Diego Maradona, who is known for making controversial statements, on Tuesday suggested Lionel Messi to hang his boots. Maradona reckoned that the Argentina striker should not bother coming back as he always gets the blame for everything. When asked Maradona to clarify his statement, he said, "Yes, because if the U15 team loses, it’s Messi’s fault, an Argentina fixture messes up the domestic calendar for Racing against Boca and Messi is to blame. I’d say-Don’t play anymore, it’s crazy, but let’s see if they’re (AFA) brave,” Maradona said as per an online portal. Messi, who has scored 65 goals in 128 appearances since making his debut with Argentina in August 2005, has taken an indefinite leave of absence from international football. When asked to comment, the retired striker, who coached Messi and Argentina from 2008 to 2010, was of the view that Messi should have broken his silence, post their elimination from the 2018 FIFA World Cup. “Yes, I wish he had sent us all to shit because he’s not to blame for not being world champion. Okay, we had all the hopes in him, but when you go to the racecourse you have the hope that your horse will win and it finishes eighth,” he said. On the professional front, Maradona has recently been appointed as the coach of the Mexican professional football club, Dorados de Sinaloa.

Diego Maradona tells Lionel Messi to quit Argentina team

<p>Argentina great Diego Maradona has been appointed as the chairman of Dynamo Brest on a three-year contract, the Belarusian Premier League team said on Wednesday.</p>

<p>A 1986 World Cup winner, Maradona stepped down from his role as the coach of Al-Fujairah FC last month after the United Arab Emirates club failed to gain automatic promotion to the first division.</p>

<p>"Diego Maradona will supervise the areas of club's strategic development, and also cooperate with its all structural departments, including the Academy of Dynamo Brest," the club said in a statement on their website https://en.dynamo-brest.by.</p>

<p>The former Barcelona and Napoli forward previously managed UAE team Al-Wasl along with the Argentina national team from 2008 to 2010.</p>

<p>The 57-year-old will take charge of Dynamo, who are eighth in their league, after the conclusion of this year's World Cup in Russia.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


A 1986 World Cup winner, Maradona stepped down from his role as the coach of Al-Fujairah FC last month after the United Arab Emirates club failed to gain automatic promotion to the first division

Argentina great Diego Maradona has been appointed as the chairman of Dynamo Brest on a three-year contract, the Belarusian Premier League team said on Wednesday. A 1986 World Cup winner, Maradona stepped down from his role as the coach of Al-Fujairah FC last month after the United Arab Emirates club failed to gain automatic promotion to the first division. "Diego Maradona will supervise the areas of club's strategic development, and also cooperate with its all structural departments, including the Academy of Dynamo Brest," the club said in a statement on their website https://en.dynamo-brest.by. The former Barcelona and Napoli forward previously managed UAE team Al-Wasl along with the Argentina national team from 2008 to 2010. The 57-year-old will take charge of Dynamo, who are eighth in their league, after the conclusion of this year's World Cup in Russia.

Dynamo appointed as Brest chairman in Belarus by Maradona

<p>Diego Maradona, the former football World Cup winner and Argentine legend&nbsp;defended Lionel Messi ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2018.</p>

<p>Lionel Messi, who is famously jinxed in the finals of the&nbsp;major tournaments like&nbsp; World Cup and Copa America has experts baying for his blood once again as Argentina gets set for Russia.</p>

<p>In the last football World Cup in Brazil, the Barcelona sensation led the team in the finals but suffered a terrible fate when Germany scored the winner in the extra time and became world champions.</p>

<p>Apart from the World Cup, he also faced defeats in the finals of Copa America. Not to forget the&nbsp;Copa 2016, when he suddenly announced retirement which he later overturned after facing a tragic defeat against Chile in the penalties.</p>

<p>Recently, Messi said he could retire from international matches if Argentina doesn&#39;t win the World Cup.</p>

<p>Responding to this, former Argentine legend Maradona said, &quot;Messi always showed he loves football, that doesn&#39;t change whether he plays or doesn&#39;t play in a World Cup. Messi is Messi, with or without a World Cup.&quot;</p>

<p>Maradona also supported the use of video review (Video Assistant Referee-VAR) to help referees at the World Cup. He hailed it as a landmark decision.</p>

<p>He said, &quot;I think that technology now is doing good in football...and I think it will be at the forefront for transparency in this new FIFA.&quot;</p>

<p>In a recent interview to a TV news program which broadcast on the America TV channel, Messi said, &quot;I have seen in many places in the world that people want this to be a good World Cup for me. The truth is I find this amazing.&quot;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">????️???????? | &quot;I have seen in many places in the world that people want this to be a good World Cup for me. The truth is I find this amazing&quot;<br />
<br />
???? <a href="https://twitter.com/Argentina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Argentina</a>&#39;s Lionel Messi, speaking with <a href="https://twitter.com/LaCornisaok?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LaCornisaok</a> ahead of important <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup</a> preparation matches <a href="https://t.co/A9tpEMUDmp">pic.twitter.com/A9tpEMUDmp</a></p>
&mdash; FIFA World Cup ???? (@FIFAWorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup/status/976590665852293121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Maradona also supported the use of video review (Video Assistant Referee-VAR) to help referees at the World Cup

Diego Maradona, the former football World Cup winner and Argentine legend defended Lionel Messi ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2018. Lionel Messi, who is famously jinxed in the finals of the major tournaments like World Cup and Copa America has experts baying for his blood once again as Argentina gets set for Russia. In the last football World Cup in Brazil, the Barcelona sensation led the team in the finals but suffered a terrible fate when Germany scored the winner in the extra time and became world champions. Apart from the World Cup, he also faced defeats in the finals of Copa America. Not to forget the Copa 2016, when he suddenly announced retirement which he later overturned after facing a tragic defeat against Chile in the penalties. Recently, Messi said he could retire from international matches if Argentina doesn't win the World Cup. Responding to this, former Argentine legend Maradona said, "Messi always showed he loves football, that doesn't change whether he plays or doesn't play in a World Cup. Messi is Messi, with or without a World Cup." Maradona also supported the use of video review (Video Assistant Referee-VAR) to help referees at the World Cup. He hailed it as a landmark decision. He said, "I think that technology now is doing good in football...and I think it will be at the forefront for transparency in this new FIFA." In a recent interview to a TV news program which broadcast on the America TV channel, Messi said, "I have seen in many places in the world that people want this to be a good World Cup for me. The truth is I find this amazing." ????️???????? | "I have seen in many places in the world that people want this to be a good World Cup for me. The truth is I find this amazing" ???? @Argentina's Lionel Messi, speaking with @LaCornisaok ahead of important #WorldCup preparation matches pic.twitter.com/A9tpEMUDmp — FIFA World Cup ???? (@FIFAWorldCup) March 21, 2018 ×

Messi is Messi, with or without World Cup: Diego Maradona

<p>Football legend Diego Maradona was in Kolkata for a three-day visit that began on Sunday.</p>

<p>Scores of fans were gathered outside the airport to get a glimpse of their favourite star footballer when he reached Kolkata two days back.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/SGanguly99?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SGanguly99</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DiegoAMaradona?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DiegoAMaradona</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/vikrantgupta73?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vikrantgupta73</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/aajtak?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@aajtak</a> Few precious moment of tday. The Prince of football with the Prince of cricket.???? <a href="https://t.co/dVMIT3oL85">pic.twitter.com/dVMIT3oL85</a></p>
&mdash; SAMRAT MUKHERJEE (@prince3091) <a href="https://twitter.com/prince3091/status/940554056455544833?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Maradona unveiled a 12-foot statue of himself in Kolkata and was also expected to play a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/diego-maradona-and-sourav-ganguly-take-part-in-a-charity-football-match-in-west-bengals-kolkata-7316" target="_blank">charity football match</a> with former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Diego Maradona unveils are rather unflattering bronze statue of himself holding a massive World Cup trophy &amp; a massive head of hair, in Kolkata, India <a href="https://twitter.com/PAImages?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PAImages</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maradona?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maradona</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/soccer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#soccer</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/funny?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#funny</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y4KopbhSW7">pic.twitter.com/Y4KopbhSW7</a></p>
&mdash; Richard Holt (@Richard_Holt69) <a href="https://twitter.com/Richard_Holt69/status/940561540767518720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>While many marvelled at the sight of the humungous statue put up in honour of the Argentine legend, social media -- like always -- had a different chord to strum.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Diego Maradona is in India &amp; a statue of him was unveiled at a charity event in Kolkata.<br />
Good to see the chap that did the Ronaldo one is still in business <a href="https://t.co/p5IDzgfExw">pic.twitter.com/p5IDzgfExw</a></p>
&mdash; Peter Coates (@golazoargentino) <a href="https://twitter.com/golazoargentino/status/940350184453746688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Twitter cracked up saying that the statue looked nothing like Maradona.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">One of these is a statue of Diego Maradona. <a href="https://t.co/4KqgUGPjD8">pic.twitter.com/4KqgUGPjD8</a></p>
&mdash; Steve Darrah ?????? (@Darrah88) <a href="https://twitter.com/Darrah88/status/940349826478280705?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The sculptor who did the new Diego Maradona statue mixed up his Scottish icons <a href="https://t.co/hc5lhkJqDD">pic.twitter.com/hc5lhkJqDD</a></p>
&mdash; McBookie (@McBookie) <a href="https://twitter.com/McBookie/status/940321606450270208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Genuinely thought this was a statue of Roy Hodgson...<br />
<br />
...it&#39;s Diego Maradona... <a href="https://t.co/V9NAVJMdop">pic.twitter.com/V9NAVJMdop</a></p>
&mdash; The Sack Race (@thesackrace) <a href="https://twitter.com/thesackrace/status/940507452428247040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 12, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier this year, Cristiano Ronaldo&#39;s rather bizarre statue unveiled in Portugal raked in similar reactions.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">How about statues of the same guys, but done by the guy who did that stroke-faced Cristiano Ronaldo statue in Portugal. <a href="https://t.co/gqI5bzOuOC">pic.twitter.com/gqI5bzOuOC</a></p>
&mdash; Dave O&#39;Connell (@bethenikki) <a href="https://twitter.com/bethenikki/status/899621827496071169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2017</a></blockquote>
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<p>Maradona&#39;s trip was originally scheduled to take place in October but was postponed to December.</p>

<p>This is the second visit by the footballer in the city. He last visited Kolkata in December 2008.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reportedly, the Argentine legend on Tuesday skipped the much-hyped &#39;Diego versus Dada&#39; exhibition match, leaving cricket icon Sourav Ganguly disappointed.</p>

<p>&quot;It would have been great to have played with him but he could not play,&quot; Ganguly said after featuring in the seven-a-side exhibition match.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from PTI)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The Twitterati thought it didn't look like him

Football legend Diego Maradona was in Kolkata for a three-day visit that began on Sunday. Scores of fans were gathered outside the airport to get a glimpse of their favourite star footballer when he reached Kolkata two days back. @SGanguly99 @DiegoAMaradona @vikrantgupta73 @aajtak Few precious moment of tday. The Prince of football with the Prince of cricket.???? pic.twitter.com/dVMIT3oL85 — SAMRAT MUKHERJEE (@prince3091) December 12, 2017 × Maradona unveiled a 12-foot statue of himself in Kolkata and was also expected to play a charity football match with former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly. Diego Maradona unveils are rather unflattering bronze statue of himself holding a massive World Cup trophy & a massive head of hair, in Kolkata, India @PAImages #Maradona #soccer #funny pic.twitter.com/Y4KopbhSW7 — Richard Holt (@Richard_Holt69) December 12, 2017 × While many marvelled at the sight of the humungous statue put up in honour of the Argentine legend, social media -- like always -- had a different chord to strum. Diego Maradona is in India & a statue of him was unveiled at a charity event in Kolkata. Good to see the chap that did the Ronaldo one is still in business pic.twitter.com/p5IDzgfExw — Peter Coates (@golazoargentino) December 11, 2017 × Twitter cracked up saying that the statue looked nothing like Maradona. One of these is a statue of Diego Maradona. pic.twitter.com/4KqgUGPjD8 — Steve Darrah ?????? (@Darrah88) December 11, 2017 × The sculptor who did the new Diego Maradona statue mixed up his Scottish icons pic.twitter.com/hc5lhkJqDD — McBookie (@McBookie) December 11, 2017 × Genuinely thought this was a statue of Roy Hodgson... ...it's Diego Maradona... pic.twitter.com/V9NAVJMdop — The Sack Race (@thesackrace) December 12, 2017 × Earlier this year, Cristiano Ronaldo's rather bizarre statue unveiled in Portugal raked in similar reactions. How about statues of the same guys, but done by the guy who did that stroke-faced Cristiano Ronaldo statue in Portugal. pic.twitter.com/gqI5bzOuOC — Dave O'Connell (@bethenikki) August 21, 2017 × Maradona's trip was originally scheduled to take place in October but was postponed to December. This is the second visit by the footballer in the city. He last visited Kolkata in December 2008. Reportedly, the Argentine legend on Tuesday skipped the much-hyped 'Diego versus Dada' exhibition match, leaving cricket icon Sourav Ganguly disappointed. "It would have been great to have played with him but he could not play," Ganguly said after featuring in the seven-a-side exhibition match. (With inputs from PTI)

Twitter cracks up over 'bizarre' Maradona statue in Kolkata

<p>The superstar, widely regarded as on the greatest players of all time, played his final match for Boca Juniors against their arch-rivals River Plate on October 25, 1997. Fittingly, Maradona`s Boca won 2-1.</p>

<p>The stocky Argentine was widely seen as one of the world`s best-ever players in his 1980s` heyday, but he battled drug addiction, obesity and alcoholism for years after retiring from the game.</p>

<p>Rising to stardom from a Buenos Aires slum to lead Argentina to World Cup victory, Maradona`s life is the ultimate rags-to-riches story in the soccer-mad country where he has gained the iconic status of Che Guevara or Evita Peron.</p>

<p>He moved to Boca Juniors in 1981, helped them win the Argentine championship in 1982, and was transferred to Barcelona for a then record 3 million U.S. dollars. He moved to Italy`s Napoli two years later.</p>

<p>He was feted as a god by the tifosi as he inspired Napoli to their first league titles in 1987 and 1990 and the UEFA Cup in 1989. But, during a decade at the top of his sport, the success and adoration seemed to blind him as he became embroiled in vice and corruption scandals.</p>

<p>At the peak of his form, he led Argentina to a 3-2 triumph over West Germany in the 1986 World Cup final in Mexico. It was his crowning glory.</p>

<p>Maradona`s fall was sudden and swift. After he had coaxed a mediocre Argentina team to their second successive World Cup final in Rome in July 1990, he failed a doping test in Italy in 1991.</p>

<p>He was suspended for 15 months and was also investigated over alleged Mafia ties and later arrested in Argentina for cocaine possession.</p>

<p>He tested positive for a cocktail of drugs during his fourth World Cup in 1994 and was suspended from the tournament. He came back with Boca Juniors in 1995 but failed another drug test two years later before retiring on his 37th birthday, five days after the River Plate game.</p>


Rising to stardom from a Buenos Aires slum to lead Argentina to World Cup victory, Maradona`s life is the ultimate rags-to-riches story in the soccer-mad country

The superstar, widely regarded as on the greatest players of all time, played his final match for Boca Juniors against their arch-rivals River Plate on October 25, 1997. Fittingly, Maradona`s Boca won 2-1. The stocky Argentine was widely seen as one of the world`s best-ever players in his 1980s` heyday, but he battled drug addiction, obesity and alcoholism for years after retiring from the game. Rising to stardom from a Buenos Aires slum to lead Argentina to World Cup victory, Maradona`s life is the ultimate rags-to-riches story in the soccer-mad country where he has gained the iconic status of Che Guevara or Evita Peron. He moved to Boca Juniors in 1981, helped them win the Argentine championship in 1982, and was transferred to Barcelona for a then record 3 million U.S. dollars. He moved to Italy`s Napoli two years later. He was feted as a god by the tifosi as he inspired Napoli to their first league titles in 1987 and 1990 and the UEFA Cup in 1989. But, during a decade at the top of his sport, the success and adoration seemed to blind him as he became embroiled in vice and corruption scandals. At the peak of his form, he led Argentina to a 3-2 triumph over West Germany in the 1986 World Cup final in Mexico. It was his crowning glory. Maradona`s fall was sudden and swift. After he had coaxed a mediocre Argentina team to their second successive World Cup final in Rome in July 1990, he failed a doping test in Italy in 1991. He was suspended for 15 months and was also investigated over alleged Mafia ties and later arrested in Argentina for cocaine possession. He tested positive for a cocktail of drugs during his fourth World Cup in 1994 and was suspended from the tournament. He came back with Boca Juniors in 1995 but failed another drug test two years later before retiring on his 37th birthday, five days after the River Plate game.

Watch: Diego Maradona retired from professional football 20 years ago today

Lionel Messi will bid to gild his legacy as the greatest footballer of his generation on Sunday, by ending Argentina&#39;s 23-year wait for a major title in a dream final against holders Chile in the Copa America Centenario.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
For Messi&#39;s many millions of admirers, the five-time world footballer of the year has already achieved enough in his glittering career to be considered in the same bracket as Pele and Diego Maradona.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Yet the only hole in the Barcelona superstar&#39;s CV is a major tournament title with Argentina, which is invariably, and somewhat unfairly, cited as a justification to delay his elevation to football&#39;s pantheon.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
That could all change on Sunday before a sell-out crowd of 81,000 at East Rutherford&#39;s MetLife Stadium, the home of the NFL&#39;s New York Giants, when Argentina face the Chileans in a rematch of last year&#39;s Copa America final.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
It is the third final in as many years for Messi and his teammates, who suffered agonizing defeats in the 2014 World Cup final against Germany and to the Chileans on penalties in Santiago.<br />
<br />
On each occasion, Messi has borne the brunt of the backlash from critics in Argentina, who trot out a familiar laundry list of grievances. He has no passion. He doesn&#39;t sing the anthem. He doesn`t &quot;feel&quot; the shirt.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Barely a ball had been kicked in this Copa America before Maradona, a regular sniper, accused him of lacking &quot;personality&quot; and &quot;leadership.&quot; Maradona amped up the rhetoric this week shortly after Argentina booked their place in the final with a 4-0 demolition of the United States.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&quot;We will certainly win on Sunday... and if we don&#39;t win, they shouldn&#39;t come back,&quot; Maradona told an Argentinian television network.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Although Messi admits that losing another final would be a &quot;great disappointment&quot;, so far in the tournament he has shown no sign of being overburdened by pressure.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
After missing Argentina&#39;s opening group match - a 2-1 win over Sundayss opponents Chile -- he scored an electrifying 19-minute hat-trick against Panama after coming on as a substitute before going on to equal Gabriel Batistuta&#39;s Argentina goals record in the 4-1 quarter-final win over Venezuela.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Against the US on Tuesday, he scored a magnificent curling freekick to become his country&#39;s leading international goalscorer with 55, while setting up two more goals in a magical all-round display.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
He even found the time to sign the shirt of an autograph-hunting fan who sprinted onto the pitch at the start of the second half. His smiling, laid back demeanor however masks a fierce determination to lift the title, revealing that Argentina have become a more formidable unit since suffering the pain of multiple final defeats.<br />
<br />
&quot;We have grown a lot as a team in the past year, and as a result we are stronger,&quot; Messi said.<br />
<br />
&quot;We&#39;ve been in spectacular form up to now, now it&#39;s up to us to do it again on Sunday. We don`t feel any pressure; we&#39;re used to playing in finals -- unfortunately we haven`t won one yet,&quot; he added.<br />
<br />
Yet while Argentinian fans -- and many neutrals -- will be willing Messi to victory, Chile have shown that they are more than capable of pulling off another ambush.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Since the opening loss to Argentina on June 6, the Chileans have improved with each game to compile their best run of results since Juan Antonio Pizzi replaced Jorge Sampaoli as manager in January.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
They humiliated Mexico with a 7-0 thrashing in the quarter-finals and polished off Colombia 2-0 in the semi-finals.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&quot;They are a team that presses you, and don&#39;t let you play,&quot; Messi warned on Friday. &quot;And when they have the ball they play very well.&quot;<br />
A dynamic, combative midfield led by Bayern Munich star Arturo Vidal will ensure that Argentina`s skilled attackers such as Messi, Nicolas Gaitan and Ever Banega have nothing like the freedom to operate they have enjoyed so far.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
And Chile&#39;s razor sharp attack, which features tournament top scorer Eduardo Vargas (six goals) and Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez, should also pose more questions than Argentina&#39;s back four has been required to answer en route to the final.<br />
<br />
(AFP)

It is the third final for Messi and his teammates, who suffered defeats in the 2014 World Cup final against Germany and Chile on penalties

Lionel Messi will bid to gild his legacy as the greatest footballer of his generation on Sunday, by ending Argentina's 23-year wait for a major title in a dream final against holders Chile in the Copa America Centenario. For Messi's many millions of admirers, the five-time world footballer of the year has already achieved enough in his glittering career to be considered in the same bracket as Pele and Diego Maradona. Yet the only hole in the Barcelona superstar's CV is a major tournament title with Argentina, which is invariably, and somewhat unfairly, cited as a justification to delay his elevation to football's pantheon. That could all change on Sunday before a sell-out crowd of 81,000 at East Rutherford's MetLife Stadium, the home of the NFL's New York Giants, when Argentina face the Chileans in a rematch of last year's Copa America final. It is the third final in as many years for Messi and his teammates, who suffered agonizing defeats in the 2014 World Cup final against Germany and to the Chileans on penalties in Santiago. On each occasion, Messi has borne the brunt of the backlash from critics in Argentina, who trot out a familiar laundry list of grievances. He has no passion. He doesn't sing the anthem. He doesn`t "feel" the shirt. Barely a ball had been kicked in this Copa America before Maradona, a regular sniper, accused him of lacking "personality" and "leadership." Maradona amped up the rhetoric this week shortly after Argentina booked their place in the final with a 4-0 demolition of the United States. "We will certainly win on Sunday... and if we don't win, they shouldn't come back," Maradona told an Argentinian television network. Although Messi admits that losing another final would be a "great disappointment", so far in the tournament he has shown no sign of being overburdened by pressure. After missing Argentina's opening group match - a 2-1 win over Sundayss opponents Chile -- he scored an electrifying 19-minute hat-trick against Panama after coming on as a substitute before going on to equal Gabriel Batistuta's Argentina goals record in the 4-1 quarter-final win over Venezuela. Against the US on Tuesday, he scored a magnificent curling freekick to become his country's leading international goalscorer with 55, while setting up two more goals in a magical all-round display. He even found the time to sign the shirt of an autograph-hunting fan who sprinted onto the pitch at the start of the second half. His smiling, laid back demeanor however masks a fierce determination to lift the title, revealing that Argentina have become a more formidable unit since suffering the pain of multiple final defeats. "We have grown a lot as a team in the past year, and as a result we are stronger," Messi said. "We've been in spectacular form up to now, now it's up to us to do it again on Sunday. We don`t feel any pressure; we're used to playing in finals -- unfortunately we haven`t won one yet," he added. Yet while Argentinian fans -- and many neutrals -- will be willing Messi to victory, Chile have shown that they are more than capable of pulling off another ambush. Since the opening loss to Argentina on June 6, the Chileans have improved with each game to compile their best run of results since Juan Antonio Pizzi replaced Jorge Sampaoli as manager in January. They humiliated Mexico with a 7-0 thrashing in the quarter-finals and polished off Colombia 2-0 in the semi-finals. "They are a team that presses you, and don't let you play," Messi warned on Friday. "And when they have the ball they play very well." A dynamic, combative midfield led by Bayern Munich star Arturo Vidal will ensure that Argentina`s skilled attackers such as Messi, Nicolas Gaitan and Ever Banega have nothing like the freedom to operate they have enjoyed so far. And Chile's razor sharp attack, which features tournament top scorer Eduardo Vargas (six goals) and Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez, should also pose more questions than Argentina's back four has been required to answer en route to the final. (AFP)

Messi ready for crowning glory in Copa final

<p>Argentina football legend Diego Maradona was unable to travel to Dubai because his passport was &quot;stolen&quot;, the World Cup winner&#39;s lawyer said.<br />
<br />
&quot;They (Buenos Aires airport authorities) told him his passport&nbsp;had been reported as stolen despite Diego holding it in his hands!&quot; Diego Morla, Maradona&#39;s lawyer said.<br />
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&quot;Diego is really surprised by this saga, which has strangely happened right after he criticised the government,&quot; Morla told AFP.<br />
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Maradona had recently slammed the new government. He had said the country had fallen to its knees ever since the Mauricio Macri administration had come to power.<br />
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&quot;Logically, I&#39;d like for Macri to turn things around and give some joy to the people, but for now all I see is firings,&quot; Maradona had told Argentina&#39;s radio La Red.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
(WION with inputs from AFP)</p>


The football legend was unable to travel to the Middle East despite him carrying his passport with him

Argentina football legend Diego Maradona was unable to travel to Dubai because his passport was "stolen", the World Cup winner's lawyer said. "They (Buenos Aires airport authorities) told him his passport had been reported as stolen despite Diego holding it in his hands!" Diego Morla, Maradona's lawyer said. "Diego is really surprised by this saga, which has strangely happened right after he criticised the government," Morla told AFP. Maradona had recently slammed the new government. He had said the country had fallen to its knees ever since the Mauricio Macri administration had come to power. "Logically, I'd like for Macri to turn things around and give some joy to the people, but for now all I see is firings," Maradona had told Argentina's radio La Red. (WION with inputs from AFP)

Maradona denied Dubai travel over 'stolen' passport

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