The 25-year-old D'Andrea said he spent about $1,500 (euro1,200) to fly from Argentina to Germany. He echoed his friend: "Maradona is the biggest in soccer history. It's a simple as that."

Maradona used to be known as "El Peluza," literally "lint" in Spanish and a word used to describe poor street kids. Now he's more often called "El Pibe de Oro" _ The Golden Boy.

At 45, Maradona is a survivor.

He was near death on a respirator two years ago after suffering a heart attack attributed to a cocaine overdose. He says he's been clean since, had a gastric bypass to lose weight, and last year his Argentine talk-show, "La Noche del 10" (The Night of the No. 10), soared to unexpected popularity.

Maradona has not always obeyed the rules. Some liken him to the classic "picaro" character of 16th century Spanish literature, the rascal who lives by his wits and seeks every advantage.

In a 2-1 quarterfinal victory over England in the 1986 World Cup, Maradona scored one goal after touching it with his hand. The referee didn't spot it. He scored another 4 minutes later, weaving by five English players and then beating goalkeeper Peter Shilton. That goal was voted the greatest of the 20th century, but the English still feel Maradona cheated them.

Asked about it, Maradona cleverly attributed the goal to "La Mano de Dios" (The Hand of God). The goal's name is so famous that it appears on the back heel of shoes worn by Messi in this year's World Cup.

Last year, Maradona finally acknowledged that he touched the ball. He said the same thing this year in a BBC interview, hosted by Gary Lineker, who played on England's '86 team.

The BBC later was criticized for paying Maradona a reported $70,000 (euro55,700) to do the interview, part of which was held in Buenos Aires, where his lives in his parents' house.

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