Saudi Arabia pulled off one of the biggest shocks in FIFA World Cup history after beating tournament favourites Argentina 2-1 – while Poland and Mexico played to a goalless draw in the first round of fixtures in Group C.
Messi opened the scoring in the 10th minute after Leandro Paredes was fouled inside the box, calmly slotting home the resulting penalty.
The Argentina captain had the ball in the net again a few minutes later but was called back due to offside.
Lautaro Martinez also had the ball in the net twice in the first 35 minutes, but was twice scoring from an offside position.
Saudi Arabia came out flying after half-time and turned the game completely on its head, thanks to goals by Saleh Al-Shehri and Salem Al-Dasari.
Argentina kept on pushing but couldn’t find a breakthrough as Saudi Arabia were inspired by an electrifying atmosphere at the Lusail Stadium on Tuesday afternoon.
It’s Argentina’s first defeat after going unbeaten in 35 games, and surely one of the results that will go down in World Cup history.
Mexico Impress, Ochoa Stands Tall
Robert Lewandowski saw his second-half penalty saved by legendary goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa in an entertaining draw that did no favour for either side.
A win was on the agenda for both after Argentina’s shock defeat earlier in the day but they end the first round, all trailing the Asian nation – in what few would have predicted.
Mexico had the bulk of the chances but would be relieved to have sealed a point, having conceded the spot-kick at Stadium 974.
They face South American champions Argentina next, while the Saudis will be aiming to continue a fairytale World Cup campaign when they take on Poland this weekend.
