Saudi Arabia produced one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history, as they came from behind to stun Argentina 2-1 in the opening match of group C.
Saudi Arabia have been defensively sound since Herve Renard took over in 2019 ,so the Frenchman would have disappointed that a lack of discipline was at the heart of the solitary goal his side conceded in the first half . Just seven minutes were on the clock when Leandro Paredes tumbled to the floor after attempting to win a header from a corner ,with a VAR check showing Abdul Hamid of Saudi Arabia had wrestled him to the ground . Lionel Messi scored from the spot,to become the first Argentine to score at four differeuvrnt World Cups.
The reminder of the first half was a tactical battle between between Argentina’s forwards and Saudi Arabia’s risky -yet – effective defensive high line.The Argentines would find the net three times but on each occasion they were caught out by Falcons offside.
A rowdy Saudi following in the stands had made the short journey over the border ,and they were sent to dreamland after a quickfire double from their bullish team who took to the field confidently after the interval.On the 48th minute mark,Saleh Al Sheri produced a neat finish from a wide angle to equalise ,and just four minutes later,the Green Falcons were flying high in stunning fashion after Al Hilal midfielder ,Salem Al Dawsari scored the wining goal.
Ultimately,not even eight minutes of additional time could offer Argentina redemption,and Saudi Arabia can now dream of advancing beyond a World Cup group stage for the first time since 1994.
