Maradona took more shots in the 1986 World Cup in seven games than Messi has this year through six (30 to 19), and he was more effective inside the penalty area. While all five of Maradona's goals that year were scored from within 10 yards of the goal, three of Messi's four this year have come on shots from outside the area.

Maradona Roamed the Field

A map of Messi's touches during this World Cup clearly shows his preference for working the right side of the field, which puts him in better position to cut inside on his favored left foot. (Each of his four goals in Brazil has come off that foot.) Maradona, meanwhile, roamed far more widely in 1986, pushing into every inch of the opposing half and coming back deep into his own end much more than Messi to collect the ball.

Messi 66 touches per 90 min.