Argentina's 1986 World Cup Winning Squad: Where Are They Now?

The 1986 World Cup holds a special place in football history, especially for Argentinian fans. Led by the legendary Diego Maradona, the Argentina squad captivated the world with their skill, passion, and ultimately, their triumph. This article delves into the iconic Argentina 1986 World Cup squad, reminiscing about their journey and exploring what these heroes are up to today. Winning the World Cup is the dream of any soccer player. When it comes to national teams, it is the maximum trophy that can be achieved, it is not easy at all to win a World Cup, many factors enter into play, starting with having a good team, a good coach, luck is important, being in good physical condition, and mental strength to withstand the pressure of each game. Now, let's look back at the players who were part of that glorious team, the Argentina 1986 World Cup squad, a team led by Diego Armando Maradona, one of the best soccer players in history, if not the best, and see what they are doing today, if they are still linked to soccer or if they have chosen other paths.

The Road to Glory: Argentina's 1986 World Cup Campaign

Before we dive into individual players, let's set the stage. The 1986 World Cup, hosted in Mexico, was a tournament filled with drama and unforgettable moments. Argentina, under the guidance of coach Carlos Bilardo, entered the competition with a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young talents. The team navigated a challenging group stage, overcoming South Korea and Bulgaria, before facing a tough test against defending champions Italy, which they tied. The real magic began in the knockout stages. First, they defeated Uruguay in the round of 16. Then came the quarter-final against England, a match forever etched in football folklore due to Maradona's infamous "Hand of God" goal and his stunning solo effort, often hailed as the "Goal of the Century." The semi-final saw Argentina dispatch Belgium with Maradona again at the forefront, scoring two brilliant goals. In the final, they faced West Germany in a thrilling encounter. Argentina took a 2-0 lead, but West Germany fought back to level the score. With just minutes remaining, Jorge Burruchaga scored the winning goal, sealing Argentina's second World Cup title and cementing Maradona's legacy as a footballing icon. This victory was not just about Maradona; it was a collective effort, a testament to the team's spirit, tactical discipline, and unwavering belief in their ability to conquer the world. The Argentina 1986 World Cup squad showed that with teamwork and talent, anything is possible.

Key Players of the Argentina 1986 World Cup Squad

Let's take a closer look at some of the key figures who played pivotal roles in Argentina's triumph:

• Diego Maradona: Arguably the greatest footballer of all time, Maradona was the heart and soul of the team. His incredible dribbling skills, vision, and goal-scoring ability were instrumental in Argentina's success. He scored five goals and provided five assists in the tournament, including the two iconic goals against England. Maradona's influence extended beyond the pitch; he was a leader, an inspiration, and a symbol of hope for the nation.
• Jorge Burruchaga: The man who scored the winning goal in the final, Burruchaga was a versatile midfielder known for his tireless work rate and tactical awareness. His late run into the box to latch onto Maradona's pass secured Argentina's victory and etched his name into World Cup history. He was a key piece in the tactical scheme that the coach had for each game, in addition to his great physical condition, he was a player who helped a lot in defense and attack, an all-rounder, and he proved it in that World Cup.
• Jorge Valdano: A tall and elegant striker, Valdano provided a crucial attacking threat alongside Maradona. He scored four goals in the tournament, including one in the final. Valdano's intelligence and composure in front of goal made him a valuable asset to the team. He was the ideal attacking partner for Maradona, understanding his movements and creating space for him to operate.
• Nery Pumpido: The goalkeeper who provided a sense of security at the back. Pumpido was a reliable presence between the posts, making crucial saves throughout the tournament. His calmness and composure under pressure were vital in Argentina's defensive solidity. Although he unfortunately suffered an injury during the tournament, his contribution in the earlier stages was invaluable.
• Oscar Ruggeri: A tough and uncompromising defender, Ruggeri was the leader of Argentina's backline. His physicality, aerial ability, and organizational skills were essential in keeping opposition attacks at bay. Ruggeri's passion and determination inspired his teammates and made him a formidable opponent.

These were just a few of the many talented players who contributed to Argentina's success in 1986. Each member of the squad played their part in achieving the ultimate goal, creating a team that was greater than the sum of its parts. The Argentina 1986 World Cup squad was a perfect blend of talent, experience, and unwavering belief.

Where Are They Now? Catching Up With the Legends

Many years have passed since that glorious summer in Mexico. So, what are the members of the Argentina 1986 World Cup squad doing now? Here's a glimpse into their lives after football:

• Diego Maradona (Deceased): After a legendary playing career, Maradona ventured into coaching and management. While his managerial career had its ups and downs, his legacy as a footballing icon remained untouched. Sadly, Maradona passed away in November 2020, leaving the world in mourning. His impact on football and Argentine culture will never be forgotten. He is considered one of the best soccer players in the world, and in Argentina he is a God.
• Jorge Burruchaga: After retiring from playing, Burruchaga pursued a career in coaching. He has managed several clubs in Argentina and abroad. He remains involved in football, sharing his knowledge and experience with younger generations.
• Jorge Valdano: Valdano has enjoyed a successful career as a writer, commentator, and football director. He is known for his insightful analysis and articulate views on the game. He has held directorial positions at Real Madrid and continues to be a respected voice in the football world.
• Nery Pumpido: After retiring, Pumpido became a football coach and manager. He has worked with several clubs in South America and also served as a goalkeeping coach. He continues to be involved in the sport, sharing his expertise with aspiring goalkeepers.
• Oscar Ruggeri: Ruggeri has become a popular television personality in Argentina, working as a football commentator and analyst. His outspoken opinions and charismatic personality have made him a fan favorite. He also remains connected to the football world through various media appearances.

Many other members of the squad have also stayed involved in football in various capacities, whether as coaches, commentators, or administrators. The Argentina 1986 World Cup squad remains a close-knit group, often reuniting to celebrate their historic achievement and reminisce about their shared experiences.

The Enduring Legacy of the Argentina 1986 World Cup Squad

The Argentina 1986 World Cup squad is more than just a team of footballers; they are national heroes. Their victory in Mexico brought joy and pride to a nation, uniting Argentinians in a shared moment of triumph. The memories of Maradona's brilliance, Burruchaga's winning goal, and the team's unwavering spirit continue to inspire generations of footballers and fans alike. The Argentina 1986 World Cup squad represents the power of teamwork, the importance of belief, and the magic of football. Their legacy will forever be etched in the annals of football history, a testament to their skill, determination, and unwavering commitment to achieving the impossible. The Argentina 1986 World Cup squad taught us that with passion, dedication, and a little bit of magic, anything is possible.

Conclusion

The Argentina 1986 World Cup squad will forever be remembered as one of the greatest teams in football history. Led by the incomparable Diego Maradona, they conquered the world with their skill, passion, and unwavering belief. While the players have moved on to different paths in life, their legacy remains strong. The memories of their triumph in Mexico continue to inspire and captivate football fans around the globe. The Argentina 1986 World Cup squad is a symbol of national pride, a testament to the power of teamwork, and a reminder that with dedication and determination, anything is possible. So, let us continue to celebrate the achievements of these legends and cherish the memories of that glorious summer in 1986. The Argentina 1986 World Cup squad will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Argentinians and football fans worldwide. The magic of Maradona and his teammates lives on, inspiring future generations to dream big and chase their own World Cup dreams. The Argentina 1986 World Cup squad will forever be immortalized in football history, a shining example of what can be achieved with talent, teamwork, and an unwavering belief in the impossible. The Argentina 1986 World Cup squad, forever champions!