Lionel Messi’s Argentina suffered a 2-1 loss against Saudi Arabia in their 2022 FIFA World Cup opener at the Lusail Stadium on Tuesday.
Argentina, ranked fourth in the FIFA rankings, is widely considered the favorite to win the FIFA World Cup trophy. They have some of the most talented footballers in the world in their ranks, including Lionel Messi. This defeat against Saudi Arabia, which is ranked 51st in the FIFA rankings, will deal a serious blow to his confidence.
Argentina recorded a shocking defeat at the 2022 FIFA World Cup
Saudi Arabia surprised everyone by recording a 2-1 victory against favorites Argentina in a 2022 FIFA World Cup match on Tuesday.
Lionel Messi gave La Albiceleste an early lead from the penalty spot after just 10 minutes on the clock. However, Saudi Arabia canceled out Argentina’s lead through Saleh Alsheri just three minutes from the half-time break. Salem Aldawsari then put the Green Falcons ahead in the match with a brilliant strike from the edge of the box during the 53rd minute of the Qatar 2022 World Cup match.
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The Argentine Soccer Team struggled to find an equalizer but goalkeeper Mohammed Alowais enjoyed an excellent game with the gloves. He made five saves during the game and was awarded man of the match for his performance in the game between Saudi Arabia and Argentina.
The South Americans had 15 shots on goal compared to just three for the Saudis. They also enjoyed 70 percent possession of the ball. Argentina will look to revive their 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign when they take on Mexico for their next match on November 27.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia will face Poland in their next 2022 FIFA World Cup match on November 26. Herve Renard expects his team to continue their excellent run against the Eagles.
Lionel Messi reacts to Argentina’s defeat
Argentina captain Lionel Messi reacted after his team’s shock defeat against Saudi Arabia. While speaking to the media (via Sportskeeda), he said, “There are no excuses.”
“We have to be more united than ever. This group is strong and has shown it. It’s a situation we haven’t been through in a long time. Now we have to prove that this is a real group.”
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Lionel Messi turned 35 this year and is likely to play in his last FIFA World Cup 2022. Lionel Messi will be looking to end his excellent international career on a high note. The PSG striker has scored 92 goals in 166 appearances for Argentina since he made his debut in 2005. He has also won the Argentine Footballer of the Year award 14 times so far.
