Salem Al-Dawsari scores winner

Saudi Arabia produced one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history as Salem Al-Dawsari’s stunning solo effort secured a 2-1 victory over Argentina in Group C at the Lusail Iconic Stadium.

The result ended Argentina’s 36-game unbeaten run, stretching back to defeat against Brazil three years ago but this was the greatest day in Saudi Arabian football history.

La Albiceleste last lost their opening World Cup group game in 1990 – against Cameroon but they went on to reach the final where they lost to Germany but that will be of little consolation to the South Americans right now following defeat to the nation ranked 51st in world football.

With Paulo Dybala still not recovered from injury, Lautaro Martinez and Angel Di Maria were up front with Messi in a star-studded team who are one of the favourites to win in Qatar.

Saudi Arabia coach Herve Renard kept captain and midfielder Salman Al-Faraj in the team despite a recent shoulder injury.

Argentina came with the intention of winning this tournament and so beating Saudi Arabia always looked like a box that just needed to be ticked.

The two-time World Cup champions next face Mexico on Saturday, kick-off 10pm, where victory is vital if they are to have any chances now of progressing.

Salem Al-Dawsari scores winner

Saudi Arabia are back in action against Poland earlier that day, kick-off 1pm, and a win would all-but seal their progression to the knock-out stages, and most likely as group winners.

The winners of Group C will face the runner-up from Group D, containing France, Denmark, Tunisia and Australia. The runner-up in Group D will face the winners of Group C.