×
App Icon
The Standard e-Paper
Truth Without Fear
★★★★ - on Play Store
Download Now

Church of Maradona: Argentina football legend had cult status beyond the pitch

In this Oct. 10, 2009 file photo, under the pouring rain, Argentina's coach Diego Maradona looks up under the pouring rain during a 2010 World Cup qualifying soccer match against Peru, in Buenos Aires. Argentina won 2-1. The Argentine soccer great died from a heart attack on Wednesday, November 25, 2020, at his home in Buenos Aires. He was 60. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko, File)

Diego Maradona had more talent than almost any other footballer in history but his cult status in Argentina and around the world went far beyond the pitch. His flaws made him human and his battling nature won him adoration.

The 60-year-old star, who died of a heart attack on Wednesday, won the World Cup in 1986, lifted Italian club Napoli to unparalleled heights and, in one crucial game against England, scored two of the most memorable goals of all time: one with his hand and the other with his feet.

Get Full Access for Ksh299/Week
Uncover the stories others won’t tell. Subscribe now for exclusive access
  • Unlimited access to all premium content
  • Uninterrupted ad-free browsing experience
  • Mobile-optimized reading experience
  • Weekly Newsletters
  • MPesa, Airtel Money and Cards accepted
Already a subscriber? Log in
By AFP 3 hrs ago
Sports
Infantino condemns Senegal for 'unacceptable scenes' in AFCON final
By Mose Sammy 4 hrs ago
Sports
Nanu wins Nakuru Captain's 2025 Prize in style
Sports
NYS and KDF win as first leg of Kenya Cup action ends at Nyayo
By AFP 5 hrs ago
Football
Senegal fuelled by 'injustice' in AFCON final triumph, says hero Gueye