Lionel Messi may be playing in the last World Cup of his legendary career, but Argentina’s Group C opening clash with Saudi Arabia on Tuesday didn’t end the way the 35-year-old star had hoped it would.
Saudi Arabia pulled off the stunning 2-1 upset against Argentina, who was listed as one of the top favorites to win it all. Messi scored a penalty kick in the first 10 minutes to give his team the early 1-0 lead, but it was all Saudi Arabia from there. They came from behind to win in the second half.
Social media immediately went into a frenzy, and rightfully so. Argentina hadn’t lost a football game since 2019 — 36 games played without defeat. Fans quickly expressed their shock and disappointment at the loss.
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Many began to show immediate support for Saudi Arabia, even though some felt (and still feel) that they could not perform at such a high level.
Messi and Co. will have to quickly turn their attention to their upcoming match against Mexico on Saturday, Nov 26.