(Football news) Argentina's 36 match unbeaten run ended as they suffered one of the World Cup's greatest shocks to Saudi Arabia who came from behind to win 2-1 at Lusail Stadium. Messi gave Argentina, who are one of the pre-tournament favourites to win the World Cup, the lead in the 10th-minute from the penalty spot with a very coolly taken spot kick. Then in the second half two goals from Saudi Arabia completely changed the match. An outstanding strike from Salem Al-Dawsari, turned the game on its head and has left the Albiceleste with little margin for error against tougher opponents in Mexico and Poland in Group C
Argentina were overwhelmingly favourites and were expected to win this match easily. They were ahead early on thanks to a Messi penalty, which came after a lengthy VAR check for pushing Parades in the box. Messi, who is playing in his fifth World Cup, beat Saudi Arabia goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais on a breakaway but that goal and two goals from Lautaro Martinez were ruled offside as Saudi Arabia's high line was working in cohesion. In the second half, Saleh Al-Shehri shocked the Argentina fans as he squeezed in a low shot in the 48th minute to draw the Asian team level.
Al-Dawsari minutes later curled in a beautiful strike from the edge of the penalty box in the 53rd minute to leave Argentina players looking on in disbelief. Saudi keeper Al-Owais did well at point-blank range to deny Lisandro Martinez's shot which deflected off Nicolas Tagliafico but Lionel Scaloni's side, who had four players who were older than 34 years in their starting XI, looked tired in the final 30 minutes. As Saudi Arabia closed in on a famous victory the game was delayed due a collision between Al-Owais and Yasir Al Shahrani who had to leave on the stretcher.
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