Argentina Vs Saudi Arabia: World Cup 2022 Goals & Highlights

The Argentina vs Saudi Arabia match during the 2022 FIFA World Cup was one of the most shocking upsets in the tournament's history. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, entered the game as heavy favorites, but Saudi Arabia pulled off a stunning 2-1 victory. This article will dive into the goals, key moments, and overall highlights of this unforgettable match.

First Half: Argentina's Early Lead

The first half began as many expected, with Argentina dominating possession and pressing high up the pitch. The early pressure paid off when Argentina was awarded a penalty after a VAR review deemed that a Saudi Arabian defender had fouled Leandro Paredes in the box. Lionel Messi stepped up to take the penalty and calmly slotted it into the bottom left corner, sending the Argentine fans into raptures. The goal, scored in the 10th minute, seemed to set the tone for a comfortable afternoon for La Albiceleste.

Argentina continued to control the game, creating several more chances to extend their lead. Lionel Messi had another goal disallowed for offside, and Lautaro Martinez also saw a goal ruled out for a similar infraction. Saudi Arabia's defense, while under constant pressure, managed to hold firm, preventing Argentina from increasing their advantage. The Saudi Arabian goalkeeper, Mohammed Al-Owais, made several crucial saves to keep his team in the game. At halftime, the score remained 1-0 in favor of Argentina, but there was a sense that Saudi Arabia was still very much in the contest.

The first half showcased Argentina's attacking prowess and their ability to create opportunities. Lionel Messi's early goal provided a glimpse of what many anticipated from the tournament favorites. However, Saudi Arabia's resilience and determination to stay organized defensively kept them within striking distance. The disallowed goals for Argentina served as a warning that the Saudi Arabian defense, led by their experienced center-backs, was not going to be easily broken down. The midfield battle was intense, with both teams vying for control and attempting to dictate the tempo of the game. Argentina's midfield maestro, Rodrigo De Paul, was instrumental in orchestrating attacks and maintaining possession. Saudi Arabia's midfielders worked tirelessly to disrupt Argentina's flow and launch counter-attacks whenever possible.

Second Half: Saudi Arabia's Stunning Comeback

The second half saw a completely different Saudi Arabia emerge. Just three minutes after the restart, Saleh Al-Shehri stunned the Argentine defense with a well-taken goal. He cut inside Cristian Romero and unleashed a precise shot past Emiliano Martinez, leveling the score at 1-1. The goal injected new life into the Saudi Arabian team and their supporters.

Five minutes later, Saudi Arabia completed the turnaround with a spectacular goal from Salem Al-Dawsari. He received the ball on the edge of the box, dribbled past several Argentine defenders, and unleashed a powerful shot into the top corner, giving Saudi Arabia a 2-1 lead. The stadium erupted in celebration as the Saudi Arabian fans couldn't believe what they were witnessing. Argentina was shell-shocked and struggled to regain their composure.

Argentina threw everything they had at Saudi Arabia in the remaining minutes, but the Saudi Arabian defense stood firm. Mohammed Al-Owais continued to make crucial saves, denying Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martinez on multiple occasions. Saudi Arabia's defenders put their bodies on the line, making desperate blocks and clearances to preserve their lead. The Saudi Arabian midfield worked tirelessly to close down spaces and disrupt Argentina's attacks. Despite several nervy moments and late pressure from Argentina, Saudi Arabia held on to secure a historic 2-1 victory.

The second half was a testament to Saudi Arabia's tactical adjustments and unwavering belief. The introduction of fresh legs in midfield helped them gain control of the game and launch quick counter-attacks. Saleh Al-Shehri's equalizing goal shifted the momentum and instilled confidence in the team. Salem Al-Dawsari's stunning strike will be remembered as one of the greatest goals in World Cup history. Saudi Arabia's defensive resilience and Mohammed Al-Owais's heroics in goal were crucial in withstanding Argentina's late onslaught. The victory was not just a triumph for Saudi Arabia but also a symbol of hope for underdogs everywhere.

Key Moments and Highlights

• Lionel Messi's Penalty Goal: The early penalty converted by Lionel Messi seemed to put Argentina on course for a comfortable win. However, it ultimately proved to be a false dawn.
• Saleh Al-Shehri's Equalizer: Al-Shehri's goal early in the second half changed the complexion of the game and gave Saudi Arabia the belief that they could compete with Argentina.
• Salem Al-Dawsari's Wonder Goal: Al-Dawsari's stunning strike, a moment of individual brilliance, will be replayed for years to come and is arguably the goal of the tournament.
• Mohammed Al-Owais's Saves: The Saudi Arabian goalkeeper made several crucial saves throughout the match, denying Argentina on multiple occasions and preserving his team's lead.
• Saudi Arabia's Defensive Resilience: The Saudi Arabian defense, led by their experienced center-backs, put in a heroic performance, blocking shots, making clearances, and frustrating the Argentine attack.

These key moments highlight the dramatic shifts in momentum throughout the match and the individual brilliance that ultimately led to Saudi Arabia's historic victory. Lionel Messi's early goal was a moment of hope for Argentina, but Saleh Al-Shehri's equalizer injected new life into the Saudi Arabian team. Salem Al-Dawsari's wonder goal will be remembered as one of the greatest goals in World Cup history, and Mohammed Al-Owais's saves were crucial in preserving Saudi Arabia's lead. The Saudi Arabian defense's resilience and determination to withstand Argentina's late onslaught were key factors in their victory.

Analysis and Aftermath

The Argentina vs Saudi Arabia match will be remembered as one of the biggest shocks in World Cup history. Argentina, one of the tournament favorites, was defeated by a Saudi Arabia team ranked much lower. The result had significant implications for both teams. For Argentina, it was a wake-up call and a reminder that no game in the World Cup is easy. They responded to the setback by winning their remaining group matches and ultimately lifting the trophy.

For Saudi Arabia, the victory was a moment of national pride and a testament to their progress as a footballing nation. Although they did not advance beyond the group stage, their performance against Argentina will be remembered for years to come. The match also highlighted the importance of tactical flexibility and the ability to adapt to different situations during a game. Saudi Arabia's coach, Herve Renard, made key changes at halftime that helped his team gain control of the midfield and launch effective counter-attacks.

The aftermath of the match saw widespread celebrations in Saudi Arabia, with the government declaring a national holiday to mark the occasion. Argentina, on the other hand, faced criticism from fans and media, but they remained focused on their goal of winning the World Cup. Lionel Messi, despite the defeat, continued to lead his team with determination and skill, inspiring them to overcome adversity and achieve their ultimate goal.

The Argentina vs Saudi Arabia match served as a reminder that anything is possible in football and that underdogs can triumph against even the most formidable opponents. It was a game filled with drama, excitement, and unforgettable moments that will be etched in the memories of football fans around the world.

Conclusion

The Argentina vs Saudi Arabia match at the 2022 FIFA World Cup was a captivating encounter filled with drama, stunning goals, and a historic upset. From Lionel Messi's early penalty to Salem Al-Dawsari's incredible winner, the game had it all. Saudi Arabia's victory will be remembered as one of the greatest shocks in World Cup history, while Argentina's resilience in bouncing back from the defeat ultimately led them to World Cup glory.