When Argentina took the lead after just ten minutes against Saudi Arabia, many assumed that the match would end in a comfortable victory for one of the World Cup favourites. The underdogs have hit back though.
Lionel Messi was on the spot to give Argentina an early lead and with Saudi Arabia playing a high line, it seemed likely that the Albiceleste would make them pay for it. The ball did end up in the net on three occasions, however Lautaro Martinez was twice denied by the offside flag, as was Messi.
Just minutes into the second half though, a direct ball through the middle found Cristian Romero wanting for pace as Salah Alsheri latched onto it. His finish was Saudi Arabia’s first shot and it was a clinical effort.
On the biggest stage, Saleh Alshehri did not miss 💪🇸🇦 pic.twitter.com/OWF9RxSftD
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) November 22, 2022
The Green Falcons have turned it around!! 👀
Saudi Arabia come out firing at the start of the second half with this equaliser against Argentina… ⚡️#ITVFootball | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/xvOVyBxaXW
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) November 22, 2022
Alshehri goal humbles Argentina pic.twitter.com/2BZf68HlH6
— Hemant 🇪🇸 (@Sportscasmm) November 22, 2022
Within eight minutes of the second half, Argentina were behind. As the side in green looked to capitalise on Argentina’s uncertainty, Salem Aldawsari whipped the ball into the top corner.
WHAT. A. STRIKE. ⚽️💥
Beautiful goal by Salem Aldawsari 🇸🇦 pic.twitter.com/WCvSVHSyTR
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) November 22, 2022
Whatever Hervé Renard said to his players at half-time, it worked!! 🤩@SaudiNT_EN have gone 2-1 up against one of the competition favourites Argentina with this belter!! 🚀#ITVFootball | #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/uHdXpjUAdm
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) November 22, 2022
Qué auténtico golazo de Aldawsaripic.twitter.com/dgTPSRP69D
— Pulpo🐙🇰🇷 (@pulpista) November 22, 2022
Saudi Arabia have heroically held out for the win, ending Argentina’s 36-game unbeaten run for a historic victory. It is just their second in World Cup history.
