FIFA World Cup 2022: Saudi Arabia Declares Public Holiday After Victory Against Messi-Led Argentina

FIFA World Cup Saudi Arabia: Saudi Arabia on Tuesday pulled off one of the biggest upsets in FIFA World Cup history by defeating fan-favorites Argentina 2-1 at Qatar's Lusail Stadium.

Saleh Al-Shehri of Saudi Arabia celebrates scoring the equaliser during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Group C match between Argentina and Saudi Arabia at Lusail Stadium. ( Image Source :Getty )

Saudi Arabia's King Salman on Tuesday approved a suggestion made by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to celebrate Saudi Arabia’s victory against Argentina with a holiday, reported Arab News. "It is directed that tomorrow, Wednesday, be a holiday for all employees in all sectors of the state and the private sector, and male and female students in all educational stages," stated the order.

#UPDATE: King Salman has approved a suggestion made by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to celebrate #SaudiArabia’s victory against Argentina with a holiday @SaudiNT_EN #Qatar2022 #WorldCup2022 https://t.co/5kg8WCOvdt pic.twitter.com/cXdYjzJ0K3

— Arab News (@arabnews) November 22, 2022

Saudi Arabia on Tuesday pulled off one of the biggest upsets in FIFA World Cup history by defeating fan-favorites Argentina 2-1 at Qatar's Lusail Stadium. 

Lionel Messi, playing his fifth and final FIFA World Cup, gave Argentina a phenomenal start by scoring a goal inside the first 10 minutes of the match but Saleh Al-Shehri scored the equaliser in the 48th minute and then Salem Aldawsari doubled the lead for his team in the 53rd minute to seal a stunning win for his side.

By the virtue of this win, Saudi Arabia broke Argentina's 36-game unbeaten streak and delivered one of the biggest upsets of FIFA World Cup history. 

Argentina was on top at the beginning of the first half as captain Lionel Messi scored the first goal of the match, making use of the penalty awarded to his team after VAR intervention. Lautaro Martinez scored two goals after Messi's opening goal but on both occasions, VAR suggested he was offside and Argentina's goals were chalked off.

Saudi Arabia became the first non-European team to beat Argentina at the World Cup since Cameroon in 1990.

Under Coach Scolani', Argentina looks extremely balanced and footballing legend Messi has a big responsibility of getting Argentina a World Cup win under his captaincy but sadly, they have had a horrific start to their WC campaign.