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Touched by God: How We Won the Mexico '86 World Cup
The long-awaited firsthand account of the most remarkable--and controversial--World Cup triumph in history, from the legendary player who made it that way
"This is Diego Armando Maradona speaking, the man who scored two goals against England and one of the few Argentines who knows how much the World Cup actually weighs"
In June 1986, Diego Maradona--one of soccer's greatest and most polarizing figures--proudly hoisted the World Cup above his head. Since then, Argentina's World Cup victory has become the stuff of legend, particularly their infamous victory over England--only four years after the country's defeat in the Falklands War--which featured arguably the best goal in history (Maradona's "Goal of the Century") and the worst (the notorious "Hand of God"). But Argentina's victory came after months of struggle and discord within the team, including the Argentine government's attempt to remove the team's management, a lack of equipment that forced the players to buy their own uniforms, and an argument that caused the team's captain to quit on the eve of the tournament. Now, thirty years after Argentina's magical victory, Maradona tells his side of the story, vividly recounting how he led the team to win one of the greatest World Cup triumphs of all time.
"This is Diego Armando Maradona speaking, the man who scored two goals against England and one of the few Argentines who knows how much the World Cup actually weighs"
In June 1986, Diego Maradona--one of soccer's greatest and most polarizing figures--proudly hoisted the World Cup above his head. Since then, Argentina's World Cup victory has become the stuff of legend, particularly their infamous victory over England--only four years after the country's defeat in the Falklands War--which featured arguably the best goal in history (Maradona's "Goal of the Century") and the worst (the notorious "Hand of God"). But Argentina's victory came after months of struggle and discord within the team, including the Argentine government's attempt to remove the team's management, a lack of equipment that forced the players to buy their own uniforms, and an argument that caused the team's captain to quit on the eve of the tournament. Now, thirty years after Argentina's magical victory, Maradona tells his side of the story, vividly recounting how he led the team to win one of the greatest World Cup triumphs of all time.
226 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2016
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437 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
April 12, 2020
Good to read from his point of view. Clearly knew he was their best player but then doesnt come across as arrogant. Gets a bit political with FIFA and how football should be run - if he was an honest man, then his ideas for football would certainly be better for the game
November 16, 2018
The best footballer of all time in my eyes, and a great book does him justice
December 10, 2018
Read this book in early 2018, loved it, one of the greatest players the world as ever seen (actually might be the greatest) the journey to winning the 1986 world, from controversal moments verse England, to a breathtaking goal against England. A great book, easy to read, just the correct volumes of information, written with a great perspective, one of the better books I have read about football, and I have read allot of good ones. One mans destiny to become World Champion, this book could also appeal to non football fans. Well worth a read.
May 5, 2021
Um relato do ponto de vista do lendário louco do futebol, El Pibe em pessoa, sem papas na língua, com toda a imperiosidade que era sua característica.
July 10, 2017
I thought that this would be the standard athlete autobiography where the actual writer throws in a few quotes and runs over the life the athlete has lived. This seemed to have been written entirely by Maradona himself. It makes assumptions that you know who and what he's talking about. If you don't already know about Maradona, Argentina, and the World Cup you will be totally lost. His ego is on full display and he rambles, but it gives a fascinating look at the man and his mindset. I either heartily recommend it (if you're a soccer fan), or don't (if you're not).
September 1, 2021
The greatest footballer of all time giving us an uncensored look on THAT world cup.
I was absolutely hooked on this book. It felt like I was in the moment as he described how it all unfolded. Such a great read.
I know we're lucky enough to see Messi work his magic nowadays on the field but there will never be another Maradona.
I was absolutely hooked on this book. It felt like I was in the moment as he described how it all unfolded. Such a great read.
I know we're lucky enough to see Messi work his magic nowadays on the field but there will never be another Maradona.
September 19, 2023
This book has made the demi-god Maradona look like an all-around whinger full of vitriol. I know, this dude has practically been sainted in Naples; I'll need to read another bio.
November 9, 2022
Tomá, una reseña al pie
De lejos, el fútbol es el deporte rey del mundo. Esto se debe a la emoción y al jolgorio que lo rodea. Sin embargo, su máximo esplendor es alcanzado cuando leyendas, como el futbolista que nos atañe, hacen arte con su cómplice incondicional: el balón, el esférico, la redonda… La caprichosa. Efectivamente, Diego Armando Maradona regó su arte durante toda su carrera: en Argentina, España e Italia. Pero, fue en México cuando el público atestiguó la obra maestra del 10 argentino: el mundial del 86, su mundial.
En alguna ocasión, Daniel Arcucci, responsable del presente libro, dijo que este texto podía ser llevado al oído y sentir como si escuchásemos directamente a su protagonista, Diego Maradona, compartirnos su vívido testimonio sobre la hazaña que lo inmortalizó. Y sí, el relato maradoniano sobre su fiesta futbolística no defrauda. Maradona no solo nos narra ciertos pormenores con respecto a la selección que capitaneó, también se detiene a reflexionar sobre los problemas y soluciones del equipo argentino actual, como de figuras contemporáneas del fútbol (sí, le dedica varios párrafos al otro dios argentino, a Messi).
A propósito del Cebollita, Eduardo Galeano, intelectual y futbolero, había dicho que el astro argentino era un dios sucio. El uruguayo lo etiquetaba así debido a su incomparable talento y a su vida, bastante humana, bastante dionisiaca. En efecto, el testimonio del de Villa Fiorito está cargado de eso: liderazgo, personalidad, determinación y trabajo duro; así como desprecio, egoísmo, soberbia y contradicciones. A la final, quién va a cuestionar el ego desmedido de Maradona, si le pusieron una cámara delante desde que tenía 16 años. Pensemos una cosa: Diego fue filmado desde esa temprana edad hasta su muerte. Así, quién no se acaba creyendo dios.
Por lo anterior, se puede cuestionar si Maradona fue un dios (ya dijo Nietzsche que el inventor de dioses es el mismo humano). No obstante, lo indiscutible es el heroísmo del 10, al menos si lo observamos desde una perspectiva literaria. Toda epopeya necesita tres cosas: una hazaña, un héroe y un poeta. La primera fue el mundial, el segundo fue Maradona y el tercero, Victor Hugo Morales con su narración inmortal del gol, golazo, contra Inglaterra. En consecuencia, se siguen escribiendo libros, películas, series y documentales sobre su figura porque Maradona, como todo héroe mitológico, no nació para vivir una vida común. El tipo nació para la gloria, pero la inmortalidad tiene un precio y él se equivocó y pagó. Mas, su fiel compañera, la pelota, no se mancha.
En conclusión, el presente testimonio consigue retratar, fidedignamente, la personalidad del héroe (¿o debería decir antihéroe?) argentino. Entre las 233 páginas que nos ocupan, se puede apreciar la rebeldía, el humor, la ambición y la soberbia del último capitán albiceleste en saber lo que pesa la copa del mundo. Además, como el gran orador que fue, termina su relato con una frase lapidaria: “¿Después de Messi, qué?”. Lo que me llevó a pensar, o formular, otra pregunta a propósito de la consecución de la gloria mundialista: Después de cumplir tu sueño, ¿qué?
De lejos, el fútbol es el deporte rey del mundo. Esto se debe a la emoción y al jolgorio que lo rodea. Sin embargo, su máximo esplendor es alcanzado cuando leyendas, como el futbolista que nos atañe, hacen arte con su cómplice incondicional: el balón, el esférico, la redonda… La caprichosa. Efectivamente, Diego Armando Maradona regó su arte durante toda su carrera: en Argentina, España e Italia. Pero, fue en México cuando el público atestiguó la obra maestra del 10 argentino: el mundial del 86, su mundial.
En alguna ocasión, Daniel Arcucci, responsable del presente libro, dijo que este texto podía ser llevado al oído y sentir como si escuchásemos directamente a su protagonista, Diego Maradona, compartirnos su vívido testimonio sobre la hazaña que lo inmortalizó. Y sí, el relato maradoniano sobre su fiesta futbolística no defrauda. Maradona no solo nos narra ciertos pormenores con respecto a la selección que capitaneó, también se detiene a reflexionar sobre los problemas y soluciones del equipo argentino actual, como de figuras contemporáneas del fútbol (sí, le dedica varios párrafos al otro dios argentino, a Messi).
A propósito del Cebollita, Eduardo Galeano, intelectual y futbolero, había dicho que el astro argentino era un dios sucio. El uruguayo lo etiquetaba así debido a su incomparable talento y a su vida, bastante humana, bastante dionisiaca. En efecto, el testimonio del de Villa Fiorito está cargado de eso: liderazgo, personalidad, determinación y trabajo duro; así como desprecio, egoísmo, soberbia y contradicciones. A la final, quién va a cuestionar el ego desmedido de Maradona, si le pusieron una cámara delante desde que tenía 16 años. Pensemos una cosa: Diego fue filmado desde esa temprana edad hasta su muerte. Así, quién no se acaba creyendo dios.
Por lo anterior, se puede cuestionar si Maradona fue un dios (ya dijo Nietzsche que el inventor de dioses es el mismo humano). No obstante, lo indiscutible es el heroísmo del 10, al menos si lo observamos desde una perspectiva literaria. Toda epopeya necesita tres cosas: una hazaña, un héroe y un poeta. La primera fue el mundial, el segundo fue Maradona y el tercero, Victor Hugo Morales con su narración inmortal del gol, golazo, contra Inglaterra. En consecuencia, se siguen escribiendo libros, películas, series y documentales sobre su figura porque Maradona, como todo héroe mitológico, no nació para vivir una vida común. El tipo nació para la gloria, pero la inmortalidad tiene un precio y él se equivocó y pagó. Mas, su fiel compañera, la pelota, no se mancha.
En conclusión, el presente testimonio consigue retratar, fidedignamente, la personalidad del héroe (¿o debería decir antihéroe?) argentino. Entre las 233 páginas que nos ocupan, se puede apreciar la rebeldía, el humor, la ambición y la soberbia del último capitán albiceleste en saber lo que pesa la copa del mundo. Además, como el gran orador que fue, termina su relato con una frase lapidaria: “¿Después de Messi, qué?”. Lo que me llevó a pensar, o formular, otra pregunta a propósito de la consecución de la gloria mundialista: Después de cumplir tu sueño, ¿qué?
December 30, 2018
In a World Cup tournament that was both thrilling and controversial, Argentina won its second World Cup in 1986 behind the play of Diego Maradona. His memories of that tourney, as well as his thoughts on other players, coaches and the state of soccer in general are captured in this memoir.
There isn’t a topic about that tournament in Mexico that Maradona doesn’t mention as long as it involves Argentina’s national team. He talks about the training, the early travels to Mexico so that the team will be ready for the higher altitude. While he gives this action much credit for the success of Argentina in the World Cup, he was also highly critical of the team’s coach for his strategy and use of available players.
This last point is also worth noting because whether Maradona talks about that team, future Argentinian teams that fell short of the championship, European players with whom he shared the pitch in Naples, FIFA management and its current scandals, or even the media, it is clear that he still has some anger toward all of them, and more. Some even believe his ego is far too big and that is the reason for this anger. While it is difficult to prove this, throughout the book he does explain why he believes what he believes and doesn’t really seem to care what others will say.
Which brings us to the main reason this book was one that I wanted to read – the controversial “Hand of God” goal in the quarterfinal match against England in that 1986 tourney. Maradona doesn’t mince words – he states that he hit the ball into the goal with his fist, but since the referee did not call a violation and the linesmen did not challenge the call or state that they saw a violation, it is a goal. It is the second goal he scored in that game, however, in which he has more fond memories and one that cemented his place as one of the best players in the world at that time. That particular match also was played with the memories of the Falkland Islands war between England and Argentina still fresh in the minds of many. Maradona tried to play down the memories of the war to use as motivation to win that match, but he repeatedly mentions that he was thinking about the young Argentinian men killed in the war. So, it is safe to say that he and his teammates did use the war as a motivational tool.
Maradona also talks about his family, his childhood, his drug use (albeit very briefly) and today’s game. What I felt was noteworthy about that latter topic is his praise for Lionel Messi, one of the best players in the world today. He bristles at comparisons between himself and Messi, stating that neither should be considered “better” than the other but just that they are two great players in their time.
The book does have many references by Maradona to watch a particular highlight instead of a description. Also, he refers to many people by last name only so readers who are not familiar with that team will not know who he is mentioning. Nonetheless, this was an enjoyable read and one that is recommended for anyone interested in Maradona, that Argentina team or World Cup history.
https://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/20...
There isn’t a topic about that tournament in Mexico that Maradona doesn’t mention as long as it involves Argentina’s national team. He talks about the training, the early travels to Mexico so that the team will be ready for the higher altitude. While he gives this action much credit for the success of Argentina in the World Cup, he was also highly critical of the team’s coach for his strategy and use of available players.
This last point is also worth noting because whether Maradona talks about that team, future Argentinian teams that fell short of the championship, European players with whom he shared the pitch in Naples, FIFA management and its current scandals, or even the media, it is clear that he still has some anger toward all of them, and more. Some even believe his ego is far too big and that is the reason for this anger. While it is difficult to prove this, throughout the book he does explain why he believes what he believes and doesn’t really seem to care what others will say.
Which brings us to the main reason this book was one that I wanted to read – the controversial “Hand of God” goal in the quarterfinal match against England in that 1986 tourney. Maradona doesn’t mince words – he states that he hit the ball into the goal with his fist, but since the referee did not call a violation and the linesmen did not challenge the call or state that they saw a violation, it is a goal. It is the second goal he scored in that game, however, in which he has more fond memories and one that cemented his place as one of the best players in the world at that time. That particular match also was played with the memories of the Falkland Islands war between England and Argentina still fresh in the minds of many. Maradona tried to play down the memories of the war to use as motivation to win that match, but he repeatedly mentions that he was thinking about the young Argentinian men killed in the war. So, it is safe to say that he and his teammates did use the war as a motivational tool.
Maradona also talks about his family, his childhood, his drug use (albeit very briefly) and today’s game. What I felt was noteworthy about that latter topic is his praise for Lionel Messi, one of the best players in the world today. He bristles at comparisons between himself and Messi, stating that neither should be considered “better” than the other but just that they are two great players in their time.
The book does have many references by Maradona to watch a particular highlight instead of a description. Also, he refers to many people by last name only so readers who are not familiar with that team will not know who he is mentioning. Nonetheless, this was an enjoyable read and one that is recommended for anyone interested in Maradona, that Argentina team or World Cup history.
https://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/20...
October 15, 2019
Always wanted to read about Maradona's version of 1986.
His preparation, frame of mind, crazy determination to win the cup, knee pain, the match against England...
there are so many behind the scene incidents narrated in the book which are surreal, unthinkable but still enjoyable especially if you are a Maradona fan!
Some myth busters as well, especially the way Maradona has spoken about the English in high regards overall.
If you have follwed him over the years, you would know that modesty is not exactly his strength but I found this book much more balanced than say Zlatan's biography.
After all, as Maradona says, "I'm Maradona speaking. The guy who scored twice against the British in a WC."
What a player, what an achievement!
His preparation, frame of mind, crazy determination to win the cup, knee pain, the match against England...
there are so many behind the scene incidents narrated in the book which are surreal, unthinkable but still enjoyable especially if you are a Maradona fan!
Some myth busters as well, especially the way Maradona has spoken about the English in high regards overall.
If you have follwed him over the years, you would know that modesty is not exactly his strength but I found this book much more balanced than say Zlatan's biography.
After all, as Maradona says, "I'm Maradona speaking. The guy who scored twice against the British in a WC."
What a player, what an achievement!
June 23, 2016
Este libro es una épica. Diego y el equipo contra el mundo: Bilardo, árbitros, FIFA, rivales, aficionados. Maradona como Aquiles llevó a la Albiceleste a la conquista de Troya, en este caso, a la Copa del mundo. Un libro muy peculiar, con anécdotas divertidas y la descripción de cada partido que disputaron en México 86. Y sí, comenta sobre la mano de Dios. No puede faltar el ego del 10, las comparaciones con Messi y sus ataques contra la FIFA.
January 6, 2021
Now we have lost this great man there isn't a better time to read his words, an inspiring footballer and man who lived life on his own terms, stood by his decision and played the game with raw passion and ability no longer seen today.
A must read.
A must read.
August 12, 2016
la storia del Campionato del Mondo ?86 attraverso gli occhi del vincitore indiscusso. Un pezzo di storia del calcio
January 29, 2020
Not long after the 1986 World Cup the coach of the winning team from Argentina, Carlos Bilardo, wrote a book titled Así gañamos, telling his version of how his team achieved victory. In 2010, the star of that team, Diego Maradona, began a public feud with Bilardo after Maradona stepped down as coach of Argentina, Maradona claiming that Bilardo had worked behind the scenes to have him removed. That the present book, by Maradona and also about the 1986 World Cup, is subtitled "Así gañamos la Copa" is the first hint that much of the text will not be spent simply telling Maradona's version of how they won the cup, but also attempting to settle a score with Bilardo.
This score-settling quickly becomes a detraction in the book, but is not its only flaw. It also reads like a series of lightly edited interviews, which is apparently what it is. This makes the narrative jumbled at times. Much of the text also seems to be based on Maradona reacting to watching video replays of the games from the World Cups, with attendant emotional outbursts mixed with simple description that anyone could provide. Maradona also alludes to but does not seriously address his drug use in the years he played in Italy, which surrounded the '86 World Cup, and only briefly discusses his disruptive behavior while playing for Barcelona. And the book is liberally peppered with Maradona's profane language, particularly his vulgar name-calling of other soccer players as well as referees and adminisrators.
A reader's overall response to these and other aspects of the book will no doubt be tempered by their opinion on Maradona's ability at his peak, his response to fame throughout his career, and his other personal attributes. Those who continue to label him "greatest of all time" will likely be more pleased than those who see him as undoubtedly talented, but also gravely flawed and an example of a great talent that could have been even greater. Even a less sympathetic reader will probably agree with at least some of his critiques, such as his skewering of FIFA officials and policies. But given Maradona's undeniable ability and place in the history of soccer, this book could have been much more than it is.
This score-settling quickly becomes a detraction in the book, but is not its only flaw. It also reads like a series of lightly edited interviews, which is apparently what it is. This makes the narrative jumbled at times. Much of the text also seems to be based on Maradona reacting to watching video replays of the games from the World Cups, with attendant emotional outbursts mixed with simple description that anyone could provide. Maradona also alludes to but does not seriously address his drug use in the years he played in Italy, which surrounded the '86 World Cup, and only briefly discusses his disruptive behavior while playing for Barcelona. And the book is liberally peppered with Maradona's profane language, particularly his vulgar name-calling of other soccer players as well as referees and adminisrators.
A reader's overall response to these and other aspects of the book will no doubt be tempered by their opinion on Maradona's ability at his peak, his response to fame throughout his career, and his other personal attributes. Those who continue to label him "greatest of all time" will likely be more pleased than those who see him as undoubtedly talented, but also gravely flawed and an example of a great talent that could have been even greater. Even a less sympathetic reader will probably agree with at least some of his critiques, such as his skewering of FIFA officials and policies. But given Maradona's undeniable ability and place in the history of soccer, this book could have been much more than it is.
December 9, 2020
"Les habla Diego Maradona, el hombre que les hizo dos goles a Inglaterra y uno de los pocos argentinos que sabe cuánto pesa la Copa del Mundo".
Con esa verdad introduce el Diego su libro. Certero, valiente, directo, incómodo, caudillo, líder. Podríamos intentar encasillar a Diego Maradona en una sola palabra, sin embargo, es mejor hacerlo como lo definió el periodista deportivo Ernesto Cherquis: no hay un solo Maradona. En este libro nos acercamos al Diego futbolista.
Escrito en colaboración con el gran periodista Daniel Arcucci, cada palabra en este maravilloso libro no solo reseñan la lucha de un equipo, sino la de un país por su reivindicación con su historia, por intermedio del fútbol. Ya que el fútbol podría ser otro sin el contexto político, social e histórico, pero afortunadamente no lo es.
Maradona pasó a la historia tras conseguir el Mundial de 1986. No obstante, la figura de líder ya se venía construyendo desde mucho antes. Llevaba la albiceleste tatuada desde "cebollita". De ahí aquel video en blanco y negro de un niño cuyo primer sueño era jugar un mundial con su selección y el segundo, ganarlo. Aquí se cuenta la gesta deportiva que enamoró, no solo a la Argentina, sino a todo el mundo, del ídolo, del D10s.
El Bilardismo, la pretemporada en Colombia, la fase grupos y los karatecas coreanos, el partido contra Italia, el maravilloso encuentro contra Bélgica, los alemanos, la mano de Dios y, por supuesto: el mejor gol de todos los mundiales, dejando atrás uno a uno, a los ingleses. Entre muchas otras anécdotas.
Amado por multitudes, odiado por unos pocos, la figura mítica de Diego Armando Maradona perdurará.
Con esa verdad introduce el Diego su libro. Certero, valiente, directo, incómodo, caudillo, líder. Podríamos intentar encasillar a Diego Maradona en una sola palabra, sin embargo, es mejor hacerlo como lo definió el periodista deportivo Ernesto Cherquis: no hay un solo Maradona. En este libro nos acercamos al Diego futbolista.
Escrito en colaboración con el gran periodista Daniel Arcucci, cada palabra en este maravilloso libro no solo reseñan la lucha de un equipo, sino la de un país por su reivindicación con su historia, por intermedio del fútbol. Ya que el fútbol podría ser otro sin el contexto político, social e histórico, pero afortunadamente no lo es.
Maradona pasó a la historia tras conseguir el Mundial de 1986. No obstante, la figura de líder ya se venía construyendo desde mucho antes. Llevaba la albiceleste tatuada desde "cebollita". De ahí aquel video en blanco y negro de un niño cuyo primer sueño era jugar un mundial con su selección y el segundo, ganarlo. Aquí se cuenta la gesta deportiva que enamoró, no solo a la Argentina, sino a todo el mundo, del ídolo, del D10s.
El Bilardismo, la pretemporada en Colombia, la fase grupos y los karatecas coreanos, el partido contra Italia, el maravilloso encuentro contra Bélgica, los alemanos, la mano de Dios y, por supuesto: el mejor gol de todos los mundiales, dejando atrás uno a uno, a los ingleses. Entre muchas otras anécdotas.
Amado por multitudes, odiado por unos pocos, la figura mítica de Diego Armando Maradona perdurará.
August 25, 2025
"Touched by God: How We Won the Mexico '86 World Cup" es el testimonio personal de Diego Armando Maradona sobre el torneo que definió su leyenda. A través de una narración en primera persona, el libro reconstruye, con detalles y anécdotas, los días gloriosos del Mundial de México 1986, donde Argentina se coronó campeona y Maradona alcanzó la cima del fútbol mundial con actuaciones inolvidables.
El texto ofrece una mirada íntima a los partidos, a la convivencia con el equipo, a los rivales, a las tensiones con la prensa y a las emociones que rodearon aquella campaña histórica. También hay espacio para el Maradona líder: el que arengaba, el que discutía, el que cargaba con todo un país sobre los hombros. El título mismo alude a la célebre “Mano de Dios”, uno de los momentos más recordados —y controvertidos— en la historia del fútbol.
Sin embargo, el libro tiene limitaciones evidentes. Más allá del atractivo natural de la figura de Maradona, la escritura es desprolija, repetitiva y carente de profundidad. El relato se apoya más en la voz carismática del narrador que en una estructura narrativa sólida. Hay una sucesión de recuerdos, pero poco desarrollo introspectivo o análisis real sobre el significado de esos momentos. El tono es por momentos defensivo, con críticas reiteradas a los medios y a sus detractores.
Le otorgo una calificación de 3/5. Si bien es un documento valioso por provenir directamente del protagonista, el resultado es desigual. Interesante para fanáticos de Maradona o del Mundial del '86, pero lejos de ser un gran libro sobre fútbol o sobre el propio Diego. Es una postal con brillo, pero sin demasiada elaboración literaria.
El texto ofrece una mirada íntima a los partidos, a la convivencia con el equipo, a los rivales, a las tensiones con la prensa y a las emociones que rodearon aquella campaña histórica. También hay espacio para el Maradona líder: el que arengaba, el que discutía, el que cargaba con todo un país sobre los hombros. El título mismo alude a la célebre “Mano de Dios”, uno de los momentos más recordados —y controvertidos— en la historia del fútbol.
Sin embargo, el libro tiene limitaciones evidentes. Más allá del atractivo natural de la figura de Maradona, la escritura es desprolija, repetitiva y carente de profundidad. El relato se apoya más en la voz carismática del narrador que en una estructura narrativa sólida. Hay una sucesión de recuerdos, pero poco desarrollo introspectivo o análisis real sobre el significado de esos momentos. El tono es por momentos defensivo, con críticas reiteradas a los medios y a sus detractores.
Le otorgo una calificación de 3/5. Si bien es un documento valioso por provenir directamente del protagonista, el resultado es desigual. Interesante para fanáticos de Maradona o del Mundial del '86, pero lejos de ser un gran libro sobre fútbol o sobre el propio Diego. Es una postal con brillo, pero sin demasiada elaboración literaria.
March 5, 2018
I can't believe what an ego Maradona has. Like seriously, could you really stop trying to be humble because you really aren't. The whole book goes through his life growing up in Argentina & then playing so well he played not only for the national team but for Italy's club team. It was amazing to see all he did for soccer & how much he loved it. The turmoil that ensued w/ other players & coaches was like something that was to be expected from him. The arrogance that he displays in stating he's the best in the world is unreal. I guess plenty of people will agree w. that statement but he shouldn't be one trying to convince people of that. Through out the book he goes back & forth discussing different matches from the World Cup he didn't get to play in, to having to fly back & forth between Italy & Argentina to be sure he got to play for the teams in the same week. I was exhausted just reading about it, so I can't even imagine. The injuries he overcame as well as defeats was something that was not easy for him but he was driven to keep going no matter what. The detail he describes while explaining his plays in the matches is intense. I think I would have been better off reading this on Spanish though. Seems like it would've been better to hear/see it in his native language.
December 16, 2022
Empecé a leer este libro cuando empezó el Mundial de Qatar y fui avanzando con la lectura igual que la Selección Argentina en la competencia.
A un día de jugar la final contra Francia, acabo de terminar el libro y me cuesta separar la experiencia de lectura que me propuse, con el contenido en sí, pero vamos a intentarlo.
Si bien el libro no está escrito por el Diego, se puede ver su voz. Eso está buenísimo. Leerlo en primera persona, contando como fue su Mundial, termina siendo algo diferente e increíble para cualquier argentino.
Cada partido tiene su particularidad y están relativamente bien contados, aunque siento que se podría abarcar mucho más.
Se cuenta la previa del Mundial (muy interesante también) y al final hay una pequeña conclusión sobre los pocos éxitos que tuvo la Selección después de México 86.
Lo único que no me gustó es que se nota que justo cuando se publicó el libro el Diego estaba peleado con Bilardo y lo termina criticando muchísimo. Si este libro se hubiese escrito unos años antes, cuando tenían buena relación, sería otra cosa.
En fin, gran libro. Hay que mantener al Diego presente como se pueda, y en época de Mundial mucho más.
A un día de jugar la final contra Francia, acabo de terminar el libro y me cuesta separar la experiencia de lectura que me propuse, con el contenido en sí, pero vamos a intentarlo.
Si bien el libro no está escrito por el Diego, se puede ver su voz. Eso está buenísimo. Leerlo en primera persona, contando como fue su Mundial, termina siendo algo diferente e increíble para cualquier argentino.
Cada partido tiene su particularidad y están relativamente bien contados, aunque siento que se podría abarcar mucho más.
Se cuenta la previa del Mundial (muy interesante también) y al final hay una pequeña conclusión sobre los pocos éxitos que tuvo la Selección después de México 86.
Lo único que no me gustó es que se nota que justo cuando se publicó el libro el Diego estaba peleado con Bilardo y lo termina criticando muchísimo. Si este libro se hubiese escrito unos años antes, cuando tenían buena relación, sería otra cosa.
En fin, gran libro. Hay que mantener al Diego presente como se pueda, y en época de Mundial mucho más.
January 16, 2021
I can imagine this being better in Spanish and maybe with a better editor as this book was a series of interviews put together and at times you could tell when Diego would mention the same thing almost word for word that he had previously elsewhere.
However, whilst not being a masterpiece in storytelling it was pretty entertaining reading about the 1986 World Cup, including the lead up to it, from the mouth of Maradona. As well as 1986 he also spoke about subjects surrounding the game including his stint as manager of Argentina. These are all Maradona's opinions so there won't be rebuttals or fact checking any of his statements if that's what you are looking for.
There were no attempts to sugarcoat anything, as was evident with some of the insults he threw the way to people such as Michel Platini (pretty much insulted him every time his name came up and it came up a lot) or certain referees or officials. I found those pretty hilarious tbh whilst others may find them a bit more vulgar.
However, whilst not being a masterpiece in storytelling it was pretty entertaining reading about the 1986 World Cup, including the lead up to it, from the mouth of Maradona. As well as 1986 he also spoke about subjects surrounding the game including his stint as manager of Argentina. These are all Maradona's opinions so there won't be rebuttals or fact checking any of his statements if that's what you are looking for.
There were no attempts to sugarcoat anything, as was evident with some of the insults he threw the way to people such as Michel Platini (pretty much insulted him every time his name came up and it came up a lot) or certain referees or officials. I found those pretty hilarious tbh whilst others may find them a bit more vulgar.
March 31, 2021
È bellissimo leggere le parole di Diego, perché da esse si capisce perché è stato il più grande di tutti anche prima di vederlo giocare. Un ribelle e un eroe, che qui narra in grande dettaglio (e, come sempre, con brutale sincerità) la storia di quella brutta squadra di grandi uomini che vinse un mondiale straordinario. Lo stile è colloquiale (ne soffre per questo un po' la traduzione in italiano) ma è bello per quello: sembra di sentire parlare El D10s accanto a te, un uomo che avrebbe meritato di più nella vita. Più vittorie, più aiuto, più tutela, più dirigenti corretti. Questa è la storia forse dell'unico momento nel quale lo ebbe, quel di più. Ma solo perché, grazie anche ai compagni fedeli che lo seguirono, capirono, amarono, se lo prese da solo, contro tutti tranne i suoi compagni, come piaceva a lui. I racconti tecnici delle partite sono forse troppo per chi il calcio non lo ama, ma per chi è un appassionato è imperdibile. Gli unici evitabili sono gli ultimi paragrafetti per capire come mai non si è più vinto dal suo ritiro in poi.
March 30, 2023
Anecdotas y detalles que hacen sumergirse por completo en la selección Argentina campeona del mundo en el mundial de México 86.
Para ser un libro corto lo encontré sumamente bien detallado, aborda muchos temas: el proceso completo de preparación, la interna del plantel, uno a uno los partidos disputados con un toque muy íntimo narrado por el propio Diego Maradona.
Lo malo según mi opinión personal es el ninguneo a Carlos Salvador Bilardo, entrenador de la selección Argentina. No se le atribuye mérito alguno, pasa a ser un personaje totalmente irrelevante casi como inservible. Se nota demasiado que al momento de la realización de este libro había un distanciamiento evidente entre Diego y Bilardo.
Una muy buena lectura futbolera!
Para ser un libro corto lo encontré sumamente bien detallado, aborda muchos temas: el proceso completo de preparación, la interna del plantel, uno a uno los partidos disputados con un toque muy íntimo narrado por el propio Diego Maradona.
Lo malo según mi opinión personal es el ninguneo a Carlos Salvador Bilardo, entrenador de la selección Argentina. No se le atribuye mérito alguno, pasa a ser un personaje totalmente irrelevante casi como inservible. Se nota demasiado que al momento de la realización de este libro había un distanciamiento evidente entre Diego y Bilardo.
Una muy buena lectura futbolera!
June 21, 2020
Απο τις καλύτερες αθλητικές βιογραφίες,ίσως λόγω της ευθύτητας λόγου του Μαραντόνα αλλά και της ειλικρίνειας του ύφους που πάντοτε τον χαρακτήριζε για οποιοδήποτε ζήτημα ένιωθε ότι είχε λόγο.
Γραμμένη σε πρώτο πρόσωπο και με μπόλικο <<Εγώ>>,δεν γινόταν αλλιώς για Μαραντόνα μιλάμε,εξιστορεί μια σειρά απο άγνωστα ως σήμερα περιστατικά της καριέρας του,πολύ παρασκήνιο απο το μουντιάλ του '86 και όχι μόνο,μιλώντας το ίδιο ντόμπρα όπως τότε,με τίμημα να ρισκάρει την καριέρα του εκθέτοντας πρόσωπα και καταστάσεις.
Όπως λέει και ο ίδιος,αυτή είναι η αλήθεια του,η δική του οπτική για το ποδόσφαιρο,όπως αυτός το έζησε.
Γραμμένη σε πρώτο πρόσωπο και με μπόλικο <<Εγώ>>,δεν γινόταν αλλιώς για Μαραντόνα μιλάμε,εξιστορεί μια σειρά απο άγνωστα ως σήμερα περιστατικά της καριέρας του,πολύ παρασκήνιο απο το μουντιάλ του '86 και όχι μόνο,μιλώντας το ίδιο ντόμπρα όπως τότε,με τίμημα να ρισκάρει την καριέρα του εκθέτοντας πρόσωπα και καταστάσεις.
Όπως λέει και ο ίδιος,αυτή είναι η αλήθεια του,η δική του οπτική για το ποδόσφαιρο,όπως αυτός το έζησε.
December 23, 2021
Insightful, page turner, easy reading.
One tip: have youtube ready next to you as you read through his detailed description of each play / goal.
Best football book that I have read after Roy Keane’s double books.
Some factual mistakes: “we beat Koreans 3-nothing” (actual score 3-1).
Raw and honest, “heartless turkey Platini”, this man / god does not hold back! Sounds like Maradone himself talking, man!
Highly recommended. May be a while before we see another man dominate a World Cup single-handedly, pun fully intended, again in our lifetime!
One tip: have youtube ready next to you as you read through his detailed description of each play / goal.
Best football book that I have read after Roy Keane’s double books.
Some factual mistakes: “we beat Koreans 3-nothing” (actual score 3-1).
Raw and honest, “heartless turkey Platini”, this man / god does not hold back! Sounds like Maradone himself talking, man!
Highly recommended. May be a while before we see another man dominate a World Cup single-handedly, pun fully intended, again in our lifetime!
January 20, 2018
El libro entretiene y se lee de un tirón, pero esta vez el trabajo de edición es flojo. Repite muchas situaciones y expresiones, amén de algún error específico de datos. Es ni más ni menos que Diego dando su versión del mundial, en un momento específico de su vida, donde hay enemigos claros y marcados y un intento velado de pararse en lo alto de la pirámide. Más allá de eso es auténtico y Diego en estado puro. Un pasapáginas.
January 11, 2021
A fascinating look back on the 1986 World Cup with the star of that win, Maradona. Quite insightful and revealing, but the book is marred by poor editing and a strange dominance of Americanisms (we win one-nothing", boots are cleats, friendly matches are exhibition matches, while they cannot tell the difference between World Cup final and World Cup finals). Still, quite entertaining. Somewhat poignant too, now that he has sadly died.
April 17, 2021
Sin papas en la lengua
Interesante la visión de uno de los más grandes futbolistas del mundo de cómo se jugaba un mundial 35 años atrás, sin hoteles de lujo ni celulares, ni Playstation. Interesantes los detalles de los partidos, los diálogos con los rivales, con los árbitros. Y por supuesto que también habla de la corrupción en la FIFA, de Havelange en la época, y del caos en la AFA. Vale la pena para quien siente curiosidad por el mundo del fútbol.
Interesante la visión de uno de los más grandes futbolistas del mundo de cómo se jugaba un mundial 35 años atrás, sin hoteles de lujo ni celulares, ni Playstation. Interesantes los detalles de los partidos, los diálogos con los rivales, con los árbitros. Y por supuesto que también habla de la corrupción en la FIFA, de Havelange en la época, y del caos en la AFA. Vale la pena para quien siente curiosidad por el mundo del fútbol.
June 17, 2024
Maradona no es el mejor escritor del mundo, era bastante mejor jugador, pero he sentido este libro como si me hablara directamente. Es básicamente como si el tío hablara y transcribieran todo. Aún así me ha conseguido transmitir la pasión con la que se vivió ese mítico mundial. El gol con la mano contra Inglaterra y seguidamente el mejor gol de la historia, la formación de un bloque, la mentalidad de ganador… bastante entretenido
December 2, 2024
Even with all of Messi's achievements, I still believe Maradona is the greatest football player the earth has ever seen. But he is an arrogant prick and humbug. The book is dotted with lines I did this and that. But he is a good captain, no doubt, as he gave credit to his teammates on the playing field. But off-field, he was the lone warrior, according to the book Billardo, and AFA has nothing to do with winning Mexico 86 for Argentina. It is all Maradona
March 16, 2024
Basically a stream of consciousness work by Maradona, full of slang and almost conversational writing. His sheer arrogance and self-aggrandizement is both endearing and irritating depending on the context. He seemingly hates most of his rivals, every referee and justifies the Hand of God far too often. If only England had started John Barnes....
July 8, 2021
Strictly about wc86 in mexico. Shows how dedication and belief in one’s goal can turn a B class fully unprepared team into world champions. Interestingly learned a few things about Diego’s role in the team, more as a plan organiser during game than the technician/scorer.
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