Messi-Less Argentina Falls to Saudi Arabia in Stunning World Cup UpsetMessi-Less Argentina Falls to Saudi Arabia in Stunning World Cup Upset In a sensational upset that sent shockwaves through the football world, Saudi Arabia stunned Lionel Messi’s Argentina 2-1 in their opening match of the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Without their talisman Messi, who was ruled out with a calf injury, Argentina looked a shadow of the side that won the Copa America last year. Saudi Arabia, ranked 51st in the world, exploited their opponents’ weaknesses with clinical efficiency. After a goalless first half, Saudi Arabia took a shock lead in the 48th minute through Saleh Al-Shehri. Salem Al-Dawsari doubled their advantage just five minutes later with a curling effort that left Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez stranded. Argentina pulled one back through Lionel Scaloni’s second-half penalty, but Saudi Arabia held on for a famous victory that sent their fans into raptures. The result was a major embarrassment for Argentina, one of the favorites to win the tournament. It also cast doubt over Messi’s absence, as the team struggled to create chances without their star man. Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, celebrated their biggest-ever win at a World Cup. Their victory was a testament to their determination and tactical discipline, and it sent a clear message to the rest of the world that they are not to be underestimated. The upset has blown the Group C standings wide open, with Saudi Arabia now sitting atop the table. Argentina, who face Mexico in their next match, will need to regroup and find a way to replace the irreplaceable Messi if they want to keep their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.
