Follow usPre-tournament favorites Argentina slipped to a surprise 2-1 defeat to Saudi Arabia, ranked 51st in the world, in the World Cup Group C opener at Lusail Iconic Stadium—the site of the World Cup final, on Tuesday.
Saudi Arabia beat Argentina. @adidasfootball | #FIFAWorldCup
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 22, 2022
La Albiceleste, who became the first side in World Cup history to start four players aged 34 or over, took the lead after a VAR review a penalty after Leandro Paredes was brought down during a corner in the eighth minute.
Leo Messi, who became the fourth men’s player to make five World Cup appearances, stepped to the spot and easily slotted the ball into the bottom corner for the goal.
Messi's penalty gives #ARG a half-time lead ⚡️#FIFAWorldCup | #Qatar2022
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 22, 2022
Argentina, who were unbeaten in their previous 36 matches, appeared to have doubled their lead on three occasions, but the goals were disallowed due to offside.
Just before halftime, Saudi Arabia was dealt a serious blow when captain Salman Al-Faraj was subbed off with an injury.
However, Herve Renard’s men produced one of the great World Cup upsets by launching an extraordinary second half comeback.
Al-Dawsari has turned this game on its head! 😳#FIFAWorldCup | #Qatar2022
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 22, 2022
Less than three minutes into the second half, Saudi Arabia levelled the score courtesy of Saleh Al-Shehri while five minutes later Salem Al-Dawsari made it 2-1 with a delightful curling shot past Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez.
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