The ball that scored one of the most controversial goals in football history could now become one of the most expensive sports balls in the world.

The ball from the Argentina vs. England match in the quarter-finals of the 1986 World Cup, the same ball that Diego Maradona used to score with his hand and later called the 'Hand of God', is set to be auctioned this month in the United States.

In that match, Maradona initially used his hand to put the ball over Peter Shilton into the net; the referee did not notice the foul and accepted the goal. Argentina eventually won 2-1, and that same ball witnessed Maradona's famous 'Goal of the Century'.

Heritage Auctions in Texas expects this ball to sell for around 10 million dollars. The starting bid for the auction will be 2.5 million dollars, and the auction will take place from August 21 to 23.

According to the head of the sports department at the auction house, this is likely the most historic ball in the world of football; because both of Maradona's historic goals against England were scored with this ball.

Maradona passed away in 2020. The jersey he wore in that match against England was previously sold for 9.3 million dollars, holding the record for the most expensive football shirt.
Source: Gulf News