In a thrilling Group C opening in Lusail, a brave and talented Saudi Arabia shocked Argentina by coming from behind to defeat the two-time champions.
Saudi Arabia ranked 51st in the world, may have been eliminated early on when Lionel Messi scored the game's opening goal from the penalty spot and Argentina had three goals disallowed for offside.
Saleh Al-Shehri tied the score with a low attempt before Salem Al Dawsari gave Saudi Arabia the lead, causing chaos in the fans, and the team then turned the game around in a dramatic 10-minute span following halftime.
After displaying their ruthlessness on one end, the Green Falcons showed their toughness on the other, fending off an outstanding Argentina front line to record just their fourth World Cup win in history and open up the group.
Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, entered the competition as one of the favourites after going 36 games without losing, which includes winning the 2021 Copa America.
They now have to do everything they can to maintain their chances of achieving their first major victory since 1986 and give Messi a deserving cap to what will likely be his final World Cup.
On Saturday, they play Mexico, and Saudi Arabia plays Poland.