The world is on its feet after minnows Saudi Arabia defeated the team headed by Lionel Messi, Argentina, by two goals to one at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The victory surprised everyone, from soccer pundits to fans across the world. While the win was merited after an amazing performance, a renowned golf writer drew comparisons to the Middle East country’s success to that of LIV Golf.
Golf writer’s comments invite Twitter reactions
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The Argentina national soccer team arrived in Qatar as one of the favorites to lift the coveted trophy. Captained by soccer star, Lionel Messi, the team was destined to break the Italian soccer team’s record of a 37-game unbeaten streak.
However, the team was a mere shadow of itself as a rampant Saudi Arabia team clinched one of their most memorable victories at the World Cup. The 2-1 upset was enough to send the sports world into a frenzy, with prominent golf writer Dan Rapaport drawing some parallels with the game of holes.
Feels like there’s a LIV Golf joke in here somewhere. I haven’t quite found it yet, but it’s there. https://t.co/CktGxVB5AQ
— Dan Rapaport (@Daniel_Rapaport) November 22, 2022
For the unversed, the nobility in Saudi has backed the cash-rich LIV Golf Series, which has become the focal point of debate among golf enthusiasts. The league has disrupted the major golf tours, including the PGA Tour, with sanctions and lawsuits involved.
There were numerous replies to Rapaport’s tweet, poking fun at the similarities. Here’s a selection of those tweets:
— Kay Ross-Levy 🌸 (@KayRoss96) November 22, 2022
Here you go https://t.co/Av3JyISJFS
— Spear (@speartm) November 22, 2022
When you spend $1billion on a golf league that no one cares about, but $5 on a soccer team that is better.
— Evan Grovenstein (@tegroven3) November 22, 2022
There’s probably a Pat Perez vs Phil joke also there with the goalkeeper knocking out his own defender
— Patrick Meade (@theory_dad) November 22, 2022
World Cup is an exhibition that actually makes us get interested in soccer for a few weeks which grows the game and becomes relevant on social media.
— Golf Industry Insider (@GolfInsider18) November 22, 2022
Don’t go to pieces over it.
— Rear Admiral (@RearAdBsBlog) November 22, 2022
"I'll wait." pic.twitter.com/8NUiBC45I5
— Queens Fort (@Bellyhungry) November 22, 2022
— SpaceMan (@SpaceMan0313) November 22, 2022
Of course the Saudis beat the established favourites in the 54th minute. Had to be right? #LIV
— Jamie Kennedy (@jamierkennedy) November 22, 2022
How did the Saudis conquer soccer-mad Argentina at the World Cup?
When the schedule for the World Cup was released, the fixture was hardly seen as a test for the mighty Argentinians. Indeed, the reigning Copa America champions seemed a class above their opposition, with world-class players on the team.
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Among those stars was captain, Lionel Messi, who is appearing in his fifth and final World Cup. The 35-year-old was in fine form leading up to the game, notching up 26 goal contributions in 19 appearances at the club level this season. Interestingly, Messi plays for the French side of Paris Saint-Germain, which is owned by another Middle Eastern enterprise, Qatar Sports Investments.
The talisman had even set the tone for the opening fixture, slotting an early penalty to put his side ahead. But against all expectations, the Saudis battled toe-to-toe against the Argentinian side to come from behind and secure a famous victory. The nation certainly enjoyed its moment, with the country’s government announcing a public holiday tomorrow to rejoice in an unprecedented triumph!
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What are your thoughts on Saudi Arabia’s phenomenal win against Argentina? Let us know in the comments down below.