Infantino Names Maradona’s “Goal of the Century” the Greatest Goal in World Cup History

FIFA president Gianni Infantino sparked a wave of reactions on social media after revealing what he considers the greatest goal in the history of the FIFA World Cup, right in the build-up to the 2026 tournament. His choice had a particularly strong impact in Argentina, as he pointed to one of the most iconic moments in world football.

The FIFA chief selected Diego Armando Maradona’s second goal against England in the quarterfinals of the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, a breathtaking solo run of more than 50 meters that sealed Argentina’s place in the semifinals on the road to their second world title. Infantino shared the clip on his social platforms, accompanied by the legendary commentary of Víctor Hugo Morales, and replied to a fan who asked him about his favorite World Cup goal.

“Maradona’s second goal against England. I could never have scored a more beautiful goal,” Infantino wrote.

The post quickly went viral and once again reinforced the status of the play as the famous “Goal of the Century,” a masterpiece that remains powerful nearly four decades later and continues to captivate new generations of fans.

Infantino later expanded on his view and explained why he chose that moment as the best in World Cup history. For the FIFA president, Maradona’s goal represents the very essence of football at its highest level.

“A moment of genius, creativity and courage that defined everything football is about. A goal that could not be more beautiful,” he wrote on Instagram.

Infantino’s choice comes at a time of growing global anticipation for the 2026 World Cup, set to be hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, an edition that has already broken records for ticket requests worldwide.

As the football world counts down to the next tournament, the legacy of Diego Maradona once again takes center stage, confirming that his unforgettable goal against England remains, for many, the ultimate expression of the beautiful game.