FIFA World Cup: Saudi fans’ frantic celebrations go viral after upset win over Argentina
The fifa world cup saw one of the biggest upsets in history as pre-tournament favorites Argentina suffered a shocking loss to underdogs Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia scored two second-half goals through Saleh Al-Shehri and Salem Al-Dawsari within five minutes to overcome a first-half penalty that was converted by Lionel Messi.
These two shots were the only shots on target for Saudi Arabia who had only 30% possession of the ball. Argentina couldn’t break their defensive fortress as goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais made five saves and was declared player of the match. Argentina scored three goals which were ruled offside in the first half.
It was supposed to be Lionel Messi’s swan song, most likely his last World Cup tournament, to get his hands on the coveted trophy. But Saudi Arabia had other plans as they staged a brilliant second-half comeback at the Lusail Stadium to etch their name in footballing folklore.
Victory means everything for Saudi Arabia, who have always underperformed at FIFA World Cups. Their last World Cup campaign started with a 5-0 loss to hosts Russia. Saudi Arabia has declared a national holiday with schools also remaining closed, state media reported.
Former England striker Gary Lineker, winner of the 1986 World Cup Golden Boot, tweeted: “This is one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history. Extraordinary performance from Saudi Arabia.
It’s one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history. Extraordinary performance from Saudi Arabia.
— Gary Lineker 💙💛 (@GaryLineker) November 22, 2022
The upset win over Argentina drew plenty of reactions on Twitter, with netizens posting videos showing how delighted Saudi Arabian supporters celebrated.
See the reaction below:
Bro pulled the door open to celebrate the upheaval 😂
Saudi Arabia, 51st, beat Argentina
(via os.nx/TT) pic.twitter.com/pX40RHqCaB
— Pickswise (@Pickswise) November 22, 2022
It’s time ladies and gentlemen!!!#Fifa World Cup #Argentina #ArgentinaVsSaudi Arabia pic.twitter.com/P7CYPNyerA
— Ovais Mangalwala (@ovaismangalwala) November 22, 2022
There is a video of Saudi fans celebrating Cristiano Ronaldo outside the stadium to annoy Argentina fans.
Saudi Arabia expels Argentina via CR7 ☠️ brutal brossss
SUIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII#Qatar2022 #FIFAWorldCup2022#Saudi Arabia#Argentina pic.twitter.com/4Gbgvd6YAx
— Dhanush – Watch TheGrayman on Netflix (@ChadDhanush) November 22, 2022
A video of the Saudi players celebrating in the dressing room was also shared online.
Watch these scenes in the Saudi dressing room! 👏
These celebrations can last an hour or two… 🤣 pic.twitter.com/Gi6l4R8hta
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) November 22, 2022
A few Saudi fans were seen wearing t-shirts that mocked Messi for not winning a World Cup.
No coldness from these Saudi Arabian fans 😬 pic.twitter.com/WvDjGqBmuB
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) November 22, 2022
Saudi Arabia will face Poland in their next match on November 26 while Argentina will face Mexico.