Saudi Arabia came from behind to stun wasteful Argentina 2-1 in the opening Group C match of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Lionel Messi opened the scoring for Argentina in the 10th minute from the spot, a lead they maintained into the half-time break.
Saudi Arabia emerged from the break to push the Argentines for an equalizer and got due reward when Al Shehri scored in the 48th minute to level scores at 1-1.
The goal sparked intense pressure from the Lionel Messi inspired Argentina team but Saudi Arabia were well lettered in defence to repel all their attempts.
In the 53rd minute, the big surprise arrived as Al Dawsari scored with a stunning strike to give Saudi Arabia the lead against the pre-match odds.
For the rest of the game, Argentina pushed in search of an equalizer and will rue their failure to convert created chances as the Saudi Arabians held on for a stunning 2-1 win.
A first defeat since 2019 for the Copa America winners, Argentina would have equalled Italy’s 39-game unbeaten record if they avoided defeat on Tuesday morning.
To avoid a surprise first round exit, Argentina must go past Mexico and Poland in their remaining group games in Qatar.
