MEXICO CITY -- Growing up in Virginia, Texans veteran kicker Nick Novak was an accomplished high school soccer player and an avid fan of the international game.
For Novak, playing against the Oakland Raiders at Estado Azteca represents a historically significant moment beyond participating in the first Monday night game played outside the United States.
Novak recalled Argentina soccer star Diego Maradona's famous "Hand of God" goal against England at the World Cup at Estadio Azteca before 115,000 on June 22, 1986.
"I'm a huge soccer fan, especially the 1986 World Cup when Diego Maradona scored that 'Hand of God' goal," Novak said.