When Argentina were drawn against host nation Italy in the 1990 World Cup Semi Final at Naples Stadio San Paolo, Diego Maradona attempted to exploit the resentment felt among Neapolitans by asking them to support Argentina instead of the home nation. Provoking outrage and shocking locals, the pleas of their captain failed, a prominent banner in the stands proclaiming “Maradona, Naples loves you, but Italy is our homeland”.

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