Saudi Arabia came from behind to shock Argentina with a 2-1 victory in the opening Group C match of the Qatar World Cup.
A well organised Saudi Arabia showed they were there to compete and demonstrated expansive play and individual flair. Rather than sitting in a low block they held a high defensive line which led to three disallowed goals for offside in the first half, one from Messi and two from Lautaro Martinez.
Saudi Arabia took Argentina by surprise early in the second half. Having recovered possession in midfield Saleh Al-Shehri was sent through on goal and he fired his shot into the bottom corner.
Belief surged through Saudi Arabia as their high press intensified. A second goal soon followed, Salem Al-Dawsari wriggled past three Argentina defenders and curled a shot into the far corner.
Despite dominating possession Argentina were sloppy, with several missed placed passes.
Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the 10th minute. A VAR check determined that Leonardo Paredes was wrestled to the ground by Saud Abdulhamid. Messi coolly slotted home the penalty past Mohammed Al-Owais.
Argentina searched for an equaliser, but they could not find the quality required, either in the final ball or the finishing touch.
