At the ongoing 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Saudi Arabia has proclaimed a national holiday following their shocking 2-1 victory against tournament favorites Argentina in their Group C opening on Tuesday at the Lusail Stadium.
The Saudis shocked their more famed opponents in the fifth match of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, producing one of the biggest upsets in the competition’s history.
With a 36-game unbeaten streak entering the event, the South Americans were among the heavy favorites, while Saudi Arabia held the lowest ranking at 51st.
But Lionel Messi and company were embarrassed in their opening contest at the Middle East showpiece thanks to an incredible second-half comeback from Herve Renard’s team.
King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud declared today (Wednesday) a national holiday in response to the enormous victory, which was immediately recognized as the best in Saudi Arabia’s history.
According to a tweet from the Saudi Press Agency, “a holiday for all employees in all government sectors and private sector, and students in all educational stages.”
Herve Renard’s team could now make a significant step towards repeating that feat when they play Poland on Saturday. Saudi Arabia have not advanced past the World Cup’s group stage since doing so on their tournament debut in the United States in 1994.
Ahmed Musa and Odion Ighalo of Nigeria have complimented the Saudi Arabian squad on their impressive victory in the meanwhile.
Super Eagles captain Musa had two successful seasons with Al Nasar, where he won the Saudi Professional League and Super Cup in 2019. While Ighalo is currently playing for Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, Musa previously represented Al Nasar.
Both athletes thanked Renard’s team on social media after their team’s historic victory over Argentina.
“Congratulations Saudi Arabia,” Ighalo wrote on his official Instagram account.
Musa tweeted, “Congratulations to my Saudi Arabia Fans.”
On Saturday, both teams are in action once more, with Saudi Arabia playing Poland and Argentina taking on foe Mexico.
Tuesday’s goalless draw between Poland and Mexico gave the Saudis a three-point lead over Poland and Mexico, who are now tied for second place in Group C. The Argentinians are in last place.
