Another shocking World Cup story unfolded in Qatar but this one was about the football. It began with Lionel Messi creating a small slice of history for Argentina and ended with Saudi Arabia players, including the captain on crutches, bouncing around the Lusail Stadium in joyful disbelief after producing one of the greatest upsets in the competition’s history.
The script was set. Argentina arrived as one of the favourites, as Copa América champions, unbeaten in 36 games and with Messi on one last mission to embellish his historic career with the crowning glory. And they took the lead with 10 minutes gone thanks to a penalty from their 35-year-old superstar.
