Saudi Arabia Shock Argentina as World Cup Legacy Grows
Saudi Arabia delivered one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history as the Green Falcons stunned Lionel Messi’s Argentina 2-1 in their opening match at Qatar 2022, a result that sent shockwaves through the tournament and reaffirmed the nation’s unique relationship with football’s grandest stage.
Trailing at the break after Messi’s early penalty, Saudi Arabia responded with courage and precision. Saleh Al-Shehri brought the scores level shortly after the restart before Salem Al-Dawsari produced a moment of brilliance to complete a comeback few inside Lusail Stadium could believe.
The victory instantly entered Saudi folklore. Messi, frozen at full time, had been humbled on a night when Argentina were overwhelming favourites, while the Green Falcons announced themselves as fearless opponents on the global stage.
The context made the result even more remarkable. Argentina arrived in Qatar on a 36-match unbeaten run and as one of the clear contenders for the title. Saudi Arabia, by contrast, were seeking their first World Cup win since 2018 and had never previously beaten a side of such pedigree at the tournament.
Inside the stadium, belief replaced nerves as the match unfolded. Saudi Arabia’s high defensive line and relentless pressing unsettled Argentina from the opening minutes, even if Messi’s spot kick appeared to restore order. The crowd sensed, however, that the underdogs were not there to admire reputations.
Key incidents soon tilted the momentum. Argentina had three goals ruled out for offside, each decision reinforcing Saudi confidence. Goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais produced crucial saves, while the defensive unit, led by Ali Al-Bulayhi, stepped forward aggressively to deny space between the lines.
The equaliser arrived with clarity and conviction. Al-Shehri collected the ball inside the area, shifted it onto his right foot and drove a low finish past Emiliano Martinez. Minutes later came the defining moment, Al-Dawsari curling an unstoppable strike into the top corner, a goal destined to be replayed for generations.
The second half became a test of resilience. Argentina pressed, introducing attacking reinforcements and forcing Saudi Arabia deeper, but the Green Falcons defended with discipline and composure. Every clearance was cheered, every interception felt decisive.
Late drama followed as Messi pushed for an equaliser and Argentina flooded the box. Al-Owais remained defiant, commanding his area and preserving a lead that now carried historic weight. When the final whistle sounded, disbelief turned into celebration across the Saudi bench and stands.
The result ultimately proved symbolic rather than decisive. Saudi Arabia went on to lose their remaining group matches against Poland and Mexico, exiting at the group stage, while Argentina recovered to lift the World Cup. Yet the opening night in Qatar retained its significance.
It was a reminder of a legacy that stretches back to Saeed Al-Owairan’s iconic solo run in 1994 and beyond. Saudi Arabia’s World Cup story has never followed a straight line, but moments like this define it.
As attention turns toward 2026, the Green Falcons carry forward more than just memories. They carry proof that belief, preparation, and fearlessness can still bend football’s hierarchy, and that Saudi Arabia’s legacy on the world stage remains very much alive.