Mexico 1986: The Tribute Match That Nearly Prevented Maradona from Joining Argentina's Final World Cup Friendly
In May 1986, just weeks before the World Cup in Mexico, Diego Maradona's participation in a tribute match for Osvaldo Ardiles at Tottenham Hotspur nearly caused him to miss Argentina's final preparatory friendly against Israel. After playing five games in eight days across Italy, Norway, and England, Maradona delayed his arrival in Tel Aviv by a week. This schedule conflict arose after he agreed to honor Ardiles, playing a full match at White Hart Lane where he even borrowed boots from Clive Allen. Meanwhile, the Argentine national team, reeling from a loss to Norway, waited anxiously in Israel. Organizers threatened to cancel the match due to Maradona's absence, causing significant tension. Coach Carlos Bilardo waited worriedly in Tel Aviv as Maradona's representative, Jorge Cyterszpiler, faced logistical hurdles. Maradona finally arrived on May 3, allowing the match to proceed. Argentina subsequently defeated Israel 7-2, a crucial morale boost before their eventual World Cup triumph. This incident highlights the intense physical demands placed on Maradona and the chaotic preparations surrounding the Argentine squad during their path to winning their second world title.
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