Diego Maradona: New Zealand pay tribute ahead of Tri-Nations match against Argentina
Sam Cane presented an All Blacks shirt with Maradona’s name and number to the Pumas players
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.New Zealand paid tribute to Diego Maradona ahead of their Tri-Nations Test match against Argentina on Saturday, with All Blacks captain Sam Cane laying out a No 10 shirt on the pitch prior to kick-off.
As the All Blacks performed the Haka, Cane walked towards the middle of the field and placed the jersey - with Maradona’s name and number on it - in front of Argentina’s players.
Mario Ledesma, Argentina’s head coach, who said he had spoken with Maradona on several occasions, promised that his team would play with fierce passion in honour of the late, great footballer, who passed away aged 60 on Wednesday.
READ MORE: The genius and joy of Diego Maradona
Several Argentine players nodded their heads in recognition of the All Blacks’ gesture.
Maradona, arguably the greatest footballer in history, died after suffering a heart attack in a house outside Buenos Aires, where he had been recovering from a brain operation.
Three days of national mourning were declared after Maradona’s passing, while Napoli plan to rename their stadium in his honour. He was buried in a private ceremony on Thursday last week after tens of thousands of fans had filed past and paid their respects at his coffin earlier in the day.
Pele led the tributes to Maradona upon the confirmation of his passing, writing: "What sad news. I lost a great friend and the world lost a legend.
"There is still much to be said, but for now, may God give strength to family members. One day, I hope we can play football together in the sky."
Lionel Messi, the greatest Argentinian player of this generation, who played under Maradona at the 2010 World Cup, also paid his respects. “A very sad day for all Argentines and for football. He leaves us but does not leave, because Diego is eternal,” he wrote."I keep all the beautiful moments lived with him and I wanted to take the opportunity to send my condolences to all his family and friends. RIP."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments