War of words continue as Pele mocks Maradona’s ‘hand of God’ goal

BRAZIL legend Pele has hit back in his war of words with Diego Maradona by ridiculing the Argentine’s ‘hand of God’ goal against England in 1986.

Last month, Argentina coach Maradona questioned Pele’s record, saying he only played for South American clubs.

Pele responded: “Maradona was great but the best ever was Alfredo Di Stefano.

“Maradona could not kick with his right foot and did not score with his head. The only time he scored an important goal with his head, he used his hand.”

Pele was referring to Maradona’s infamous first goal in Argentina’s 2-1 victory over England in the quarter-finals of the 1986 World Cup in Mexico.

Maradona rose to challenge England keeper Peter Shilton and punched the ball into the net.

He later scored a wonder goal, dribbling from just inside his own half and beating half the English midfield and defence before drifting past Shilton and sliding the ball home. The Argentine had earlier said of Pele: “He won more World Cups. But playing in Europe is another thing.”