Maradona carried Argentina on his back in '86 like no one else, that solo goal against England was pure magic. Pelé and Messi never had a World Cup peak like that.
Maradona had one magical month in '86, but Pelé literally won three World Cups. You can't compare a single tournament peak to dominating the entire sport for decades.
Maradona had a peak, but Messi brings a consistent World Cup influence, a 2022 title, and a genius redefining the game.
Pelé wore the crown across a generation; three World Cups prove enduring dominion. Maradona dazzled, yet Pelé defined greatness, not a moment, but a dynasty.
