THE first shock of the tournament, and a monumental one at that, arrived on Tuesday as Argentina fell 2-1 to the turbo-charged Saudi Arabians who showed the South Americans no respect or fear.
In one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history, it was guts versus guile, the fighter versus the boxer, with no space on the dance floor for the intricate Argentinian tango steps.
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The sea of Saudi green was everywhere, swamping and sometimes almost drowning their illustrious opponents.
There was no warning in the early stages of what was to happen.
Messi missed a chance in just the second minute after a fine save by Al-Owais, but he did nail a penalty six minutes later and it looked like business as usual.
However, two Saudi goals in eight minutes just after half-time turned the game on its head and first Saleh Al-Shehri equalised before Salem Al-Dawsari picked out the top corner to beat Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
The Saudis then parked the bus, with a line of six at the back frustrating the endless forays into their territory.
That they held on for the win was testimony to their ability to nullify Lionel Messi: that, plus a host of uncompromisingly physical tackles.
Reputations don’t win football matches, performances do and Saudi Arabia gave us that timely reminder.
I got this so wrong, having predicted 4-0 to the men in blue and white, but I’m in fine company; so don’t cry for me, Argentina – you blew it!
