With just 26 days until the 2026 World Cup kicks off, we're taking a trip down memory lane to one of the tournament's most jaw-dropping upsets. The countdown is heating up, and what better way to get in the spirit than revisiting the moment Saudi Arabia stunned the eventual champions, Argentina, in Qatar 2022?
Argentina's road to glory began with a stumble that no one saw coming. The mighty La Albiceleste, riding a 36-match unbeaten streak, walked onto the pitch at Lusail Stadium as heavy favorites. Lionel Messi calmly slotted home a penalty in the 10th minute, and everything seemed to be going according to plan. Argentina dominated the first half, but three goals were wiped off the board for offside—a sign that something wasn't quite clicking.
Then came the second half, and the script flipped completely. Saudi Arabia struck back in the 48th minute when Saleh Al-Shehri equalized, sending shockwaves through the stadium. Just five minutes later, Salem Al-Dawsari produced a moment of pure magic, weaving through defenders and curling a stunning shot past Emiliano Martínez to give Saudi Arabia the lead. It was a goal that would echo through World Cup history.
Argentina threw everything forward, racking up 15 shots and six on target, but Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais stood tall. The 2-1 defeat snapped Argentina's unbeaten run and put their tournament hopes on life support.
But champions have a way of rising from the ashes. Messi and his teammates regrouped, grinding out back-to-back 2-0 wins over Mexico and Poland to top their group. They survived a dramatic Round of 16 clash with Australia, and from there, the rest is history—culminating in a legendary final victory that brought the trophy home.
This upset reminds us that in football, anything can happen. Whether you're repping Argentina's iconic stripes or cheering for an underdog, the World Cup is all about the passion, the drama, and the unforgettable moments that define the beautiful game.
