BREAKING NEWS: Diego Maradona Rushed To Hospital After Nearly Collapsing Following Argentina’s Dramatic Win Over Nigeria

DIEGO MARADONA has been rushed to hospital after nearly collapsing following Argentina's dramatic win over Nigeria.

The football legend could be seen in a shocking video clip being helped from the stands by worried pals following the World Cup clash.

The 57-year-old has sparked serious health fears and according to ESPN was checked over by medics before being taken away by ambulance.

Maradona had seconds earlier sworn at the crowd during a manic celebration after the South Americans scored a late winner through Marcos Rojo and sneaked through to the last 16 to face France on Saturday.

And now there are concerns over the wellbeing of the former Barcelona and Napoli star - regarded as one of the greatest players ever.

The Argentine hero, who lifted the World Cup for his country in 1986, could hardly walk from his seat at the end of the 2-1 win over Nigeria.

Respected South American journalist Diego Cora tweeted: "Maradona had to be cared for by the doctors and was taken to hospital."

He had provided a one-man sideshow to the match in St Petersburg from before the game to the final whistle.

Maradona was already high on the excitement when he danced with a Nigerian supporter in his executive box ahead of kick-off.

When Lionel Messi fired Argentina ahead in the first half he then saluted the heavens and looked wild-eyed with delight with a strange Dracula-style celebration where he crossed his hands on his chest.

He was constantly up on his feet shouting and screaming, only to be slumped back in his seat minutes later and looked like he had passed out just before half-time.

Diego Maradona had to be carried away after the game 😳 pic.twitter.com/kIM8lSuUuE

— Futbol Stuff (@FutboIStuff) June 26, 2018

His behaviour was criticised by former England star Rio Ferdinand, who was working as a pundit for the BBC.

Ferdinand said of his double middle-finger salute: "His career as a football player on the pitch was up there with the best, but unfortunately there are moments like this that do arrive.

"It is not nice to see that."
And presenter Gary Lineker added: "Diego Maradona perhaps let himself down with his celebration."

Reports from St Petersburg suggest Maradona is 'stable in hospital'.