Diego Maradona Comments on Argentina, Cristiano Ronaldo and More

Former Argentina international Diego Maradona has warned his compatriots not to come back if they lose the 2016 Copa America Centenario final against Chile on Sunday. 

He also believes Portugal's over-reliance on Cristiano Ronaldo could doom them in their Euro 2016 match against Croatia, and he called his infamous “Hand of God” goal against England revenge for the Falklands War.

The legendary footballer has never shied away from giving his opinions, and he did so again ahead of the Copa America final and Euro 2016 knockout stages. Speaking to C5N (h/t ESPN FC), he was confident Argentina would avenge last year's loss to Chile: "Of course I think we'll win. But if you don't win, don't come back."

Eric Gay/Associated Press

The Albiceleste will once again meet rivals Chile in the Copa final, one year after their loss in a penalty shootout. Argentina have looked mighty impressive so far in the tournament, and star forward Lionel Messi passed Maradona as the nation's all-time leading scorer in the process. He now has 38 career goals in the iconic kit.

While Messi and his team-mates are once again the favourites to hoist the Copa trophy, Spanish football expert Rafael Hernandez likes the Chilean's chances:

Maradona wasn't finished, however. Per Times of India (h/t ESPN FC), he elaborated on Ronaldo's role in Portugal's Euro 2016 bid, and how the team's reliance on his scoring and creativity could backfire:

"

Portugal are too dependent on Ronaldo. He was brilliant against Hungary, but they are half the force if he doesn't click and the tactically astute Croats will ensure he is low on supply.

He may have to move around for space and chances of Portugal's success hinge on how well he does that. They also have to plug holes in midfield and defence, because these are areas where mistakes may lead to elimination. Croatia start favourites.

"

The Real Madrid star almost single-handedly fired Portugal to the round of 16, scoring twice and providing an assist against Group F winners Hungary in their final match. The 3-3 draw set up a tricky clash with an in-form Croatia side, who have already beaten defending champions Spain and appear a far more balanced team.

Ronaldo hasn't been at his best during the tournament, but his great showing against Hungary indicates he's rounding into form. Croatia's defence should present the 31-year-old with a far stiffer challenge, however, and their midfield group of Ivan Rakitic, Luka Modric and Ivan Perisic has the potential to dominate the battle for possession.

Darko Bandic/Associated Press

That might just be what Portugal need, however―Ronaldo's speed would be a major weapon on the counter-attack. The two teams will meet on Saturday.

Finally, the 1986 FIFA World Cup winner looked back on one of the most famous moments of his career, recalling the “Hand of God” goal 30 years after beating England 2-1. As reported by the Daily Mirror's Ed Malyon, the Falklands War was still fresh in the players' minds when the match took place, and Maradona and his team-mates were more than happy to grab the win:

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We played that game with boots and rifles.

After the game we celebrated until we cried.

It felt like we had done justice, well maybe not justice but made good for the mothers who had lost sons in the Falklands.

For that goal I thought Shilton was going to clatter me. But it was like he'd taken a Xanax, he pulled out.

A little guy of 1.67 metres beat a big guy of 1.88 metres to the ball... but with his hand. It was like I robbed their wallets!

"

Maradona opened the score by beating goalkeeper Peter Shilton to a high, looping ball, and replays confirmed the legendary forward struck the ball with his hand. Here's a look at the historic moment:

Minutes later, he doubled his team's lead with a stunning solo effort, dubbed the “Goal of the Century.” Argentina held on to beat England and advance to the semi-finals. Maradona and his team-mates then defeated West Germany 3-2 in the final, the last time the Albiceleste won the World Cup.

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