POPULAR — Saudi Arabia’s win over Lionel Messi-led Argentina in the 2022 World Cup stunned the whole world, as the underdog defeated the football juggernaut, 2-1.
Edited by Derek Gou, The Viking View Editor.
James Williamson - Ama | Getty Images Sport | Getty Images
In one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history, Argentina faced a shocking loss at the Lusail Stadium on Tuesday, November 22, in front of a crowd of 88,012 in Qatar.
Argentina came into the game as the overwhelming favourite. The unbeaten team led by acclaimed forward Lionel Messi, playing his fifth World Cup, began by beating Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais on a breakaway, but that goal and two others by Lautaro Martinez were ruled offside by the new VAR system, in part thanks to Saudi Arabia’s strong defensive line.
Early in the first half, Messi opened up the lead for Argentina, scoring a penalty in the 10th minute. However, the match started to go downhill for Argentina. Just 3 minutes into the second half, Saleh Al Shehri scored a stunning equalizer for Saudi Arabia, beating Emilio Martinez to the bottom corner. Then, Salem Al Dawsari scored a scorching solo shot in the 53rd minute, leaving Argentina looking in disbelief, curling a phenomenal ball past Martinez.
View the game highlights below ('Watch on Youtube.')
After the dramatic victory, Saudi Arabia fans chanted, “Where is Messi? We beat him!” as they celebrated their shocking win over 3rd-ranked Argentina. Saudi Arabia, ranked 51st, is the second-lowest-ranked team in the tournament. Make sure to stay posted with the Viking View during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar for more details.