Maradona urges referee to crack down on foul play at World Cup

Maradona urges referees crackdown at World Cup

PRETORIA, South Africa — Diego Maradona has urged referees to crack down on foul play to create better soccer at the World Cup.

Maradona says referees should “know the meaning of” fair play and apply it wisely, while FIFA’s campaign to eliminate dirty play should be more than just a slogan.

Maradona, who scored the infamous “Hand of God” goal against England at the 1986 World Cup, was also the victim of frequent rough fouls during his career. He said Friday that fair play can be the basis for a great tournament, giving the stars a chance to shine.

Argentina opens its World Cup campaign against Nigeria on Saturday in Johannesburg.