In what some analysts are already classifying as one of the greatest upsets in the history of the World Cup, Saudi Arabia stunned tournament favorite Argentina, 2-1, in its opening match at Lusail Stadium in Doha.
The upset win, which sent shockwaves around world football and excited fans of the Green Falcons worldwide, puts Saudi Arabia off to a very strong 1-0 start in Group C.
The jubilation from Saudi Arabia on the field and with fans online was matched by an equal measure of disappointment and anger among Argentina fans, who are hoping for superstar Lionel Messi — a spokesperson for Visit Saudi — to lead his squad to winning the tournament this year, his final World Cup.
Just after halftime, striker Saleh Alshehri, who plays for Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia, scored the equalizer goal at 48′. Then, just 5 minutes later, Salem Aldawsari scored the go-ahead goal after dancing through several Argentina defenders and blasting a marvelous shot past goalkeeper Emilano Martinez.
Argentina controlled the game, but was unable to rally from behind with the enormous amount of time remaining in the second half. Saudi keeper Mohammed Alowais was awarded player of the match after making five saves against Argentina’s powerful offense.
Argentina was on a 36-game unbeaten streak. King Salman has declared Wednesday be a holiday.
#BREAKING: King Salman orders that tomorrow, Wednesday, will be a holiday for all employees in public and private sectors as well as for students in all phases of education, in celebration of #SaudiArabia's stunning victory against Argentina in #WorldCup2022 pic.twitter.com/LaLtW5cycd
— Saudi Gazette (@Saudi_Gazette) November 22, 2022
Saudi Arabia plays Poland in its next match on Saturday.
