#2 Diego Maradona – Argentina
Maradona is considered as a God in Argentina for delivering them the World Cup in 1986. He had several talented players besides him, a fact often overlooked, but his contribution was unparalleled on the football field.
His performances in the 1986 World Cup stand as one of the best individual performances ever seen by any player in a major tournament. His legendary goal against England in the quarter-final was seismic and unforgettable but apart from the ‘86 World Cup, he often dropped out of the national team and had periods of indifferent form for La Albiceleste.
Being sent off against Brazil in the 1982 World Cup, failing a drug test in 1994 are memories that are often forgotten, but cannot be ignored when considering his overall contribution for Argentina.
Maradona’s international career highlights
Overall record | 34 goals in 91 appearances |
Best World Cup Finish | Winner (1) – 1986, Runners-up (1) – 1990 |
Copa America | Fourth Place – 1987 |
FIFA World Cup Golden Ball | 1986 |
FIFA World Cup All-Star Team | 1986, 1990 |
FIFA World Cup Bronze Ball | 1990 |