#SaudiArabia was trending number one in the United Kingdom for several hours, as fans expressed a mix of emotions over Saudi Arabia’s victory World Cup win over Argentina.
SAUDI ARABIA SHOCK THE WORLD 🤯 pic.twitter.com/tOFvllbfeD
— 433 (@433) November 22, 2022
Many people were ecstatic with the results, sharing their excitement on social media platforms over the astonishing win that even Saudis themselves did not expect. After playing Brazil in the 2019 Copa America final, Argentina had gone 36 games without a single loss before this defeat.
ALLAHU AKBAR….what a stunner from salem and a win to Saudi Arabia.. congratulations for ending Argentina's unbeaten run #ARGKSA pic.twitter.com/acQxWalM85
— Ibraheem Affellay (@Ibraheemaffelay) November 22, 2022
Saudi Arabia’s Victory Delights Many

Great broadcasters like Gary Lineker, who has been generally critical of the World Cup, have taken notice of Saudi Arabia’s “extraordinary” victory. Even Lineker was delighted with how the Saudi team performed, defeating a team currently ranked third in the world – just behind Belgium and Brazil – while Saudi Arabia comes in at number 51.
That is one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history. Extraordinary performance from Saudi Arabia.
— Gary Lineker 💙💛 (@GaryLineker) November 22, 2022
This victory also caught the attention of figures all around the world, including regular football fans, social media stars including ‘Jake Paul,’ and world leaders such as the prime minister of Pakistan, ‘Shehbaz Sharif.
Saudi Arabia never won a single world cup game until they played against the Great Lionel Andres Messi
Goat effect 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/FOLvAOJSgX
— S⁷ (@Schule7i) November 22, 2022
What a game of football it was! Saudi Arabia made history today by staging the biggest upset in FIFA World Cup thriller against Argentina. Heartiest congratulations to HRH Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. We share the happiness of our Saudi brothers & sisters on this great win.
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) November 22, 2022
Many saw the results as a triumph not just for Saudi Arabia but the Middle East as a whole, especially after the region has been subject to scrutiny by Western media, in the run-up to the 2022 Qatar World Cup.
Wider Effects

The discussion over separating sports and politics have long since divided fans and officials alike. Saudi Arabia’s victory saw an occurrence which insiders deemed politically-charged. the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad was seen wearing the Saudi scarf, which would have been unimaginable given the Gulf blockade two years ago.
Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad wears the flag of #SaudiArabia during the national team's match against Argentina. #السعوديه_الارجنتين
— THE TRUE NEWS 📰 (@thetruenews12) November 22, 2022
Saudis’ win was the result of excellent defensive play and tactical strategy rather than luck or pure chance. They quickly regained the lead in the second half with two quick goals from Saleh Al-Shehri and Salem Al-Dawsari, and they held on for more than 40 minutes as the Argentine shots came in waves that were resolutely repelled.
Saudi Arabia weren't lucky against Argentina. They actually played better, defended better, attacked better, were more aggressive.
— Dodo (@IamdodoP) November 22, 2022
Following their 2-1 victory over Argentina, King Salman declared a public holiday in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday November 23rd, further adding to the happiness and joy of Saudi citizens.
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