The memories of Mexico '86 still send shivers down David Pleat's spine. The former football manager and pundit was part of a historic quarter-final between England and Argentina, an encounter forever etched in the annals of football history by Diego Maradona's awe-inspiring individual brilliance and controversy.
The Azteca Stadium was electric that day, with 114,000 fans creating a deafening atmosphere akin to a gigantic beehive. Pleat, along with commentator Martin Tyler, ascended to the commentary gantry for ITV, ready to call one of the most pivotal matches in English football history. England's squad boasted an array of talent, including Peter Shilton, Terry Butcher, Glenn Hoddle, and Gary Lineker, but Pleat had concerns about their ability to recover quickly from the high altitude – a challenge that would prove significant.
The match erupted into life early in the second half with Maradona's infamous 'Hand of God' goal. While many believe it was deliberate, Pleat insists he saw an instinctive raise of Maradona's arm as Shilton hurtled towards him, with the ball striking his hand and sneaking past Terry Fenwick for a goal that still sparks debate. The Tunisian referee, Ali Ben Nasser, allowed it to stand amidst furious English protests. Moments later, Maradona conjured up a breathtaking second, weaving past several defenders like a hot knife through butter before slotting the ball past Shilton – a goal Pleat rates among the finest he's ever witnessed live, surpassing even Gareth Bale's majestic overhead kick in the 2018 Champions League final and Son Heung-min's solo effort against Burnley.
England manager Bobby Robson introduced Chris Waddle and John Barnes, sparking hope when Lineker headed in a superb cross from Barnes. But it wasn't enough, and England departed the tournament with a sense of frustration etched on Robson's face during his post-match interview. Pleat also confessed to his most embarrassing commentary blunder, saying, "Maradona gets amazing elevation on his balls from the tightest of angles," after a cross from the byline – an observation that still makes him wince.
Pleat also reflected on the vast changes in football since 1986. He noted the stark contrast between then and now, particularly with regards to team accommodation – they shared a complex in Saltillo with the TV crew, whereas today's teams are pampered in luxury resorts. The facilities available to players have also evolved dramatically from the relatively basic setup of nearly four decades ago.
Source: David Pleat