6 Biggest Shocks Of The 2022 World Cup!

The 2022 World Cup in Qatar was full of surprises, dramatic moments, and unforgettable matches. While some of the usual suspects performed as expected, there were also several shocking upsets that left fans around the globe stunned. In this article, we're diving into the top 6 biggest upsets of the 2022 World Cup, exploring the context, key moments, and lasting impact of these unexpected results. Get ready for a thrilling ride through some of the most memorable underdog victories in recent football history!

1. Saudi Arabia vs. Argentina: A Desert Miracle

Let's kick things off with arguably the biggest shock of the entire tournament: Saudi Arabia's stunning 2-1 victory over Argentina. Before the match, almost no one gave the Green Falcons a chance against Lionel Messi and the reigning Copa América champions. Argentina was on a 36-match unbeaten streak and was widely considered one of the favorites to lift the trophy. The stage was set for a routine victory, but football, as always, had other plans.

The match started predictably, with Messi converting an early penalty to give Argentina a 1-0 lead. It looked like the floodgates might open, but Saudi Arabia hung tough, defending resolutely and frustrating the Argentine attack. Then, in a sensational five-minute spell after halftime, Saleh Al-Shehri and Salem Al-Dawsari scored two incredible goals to turn the game on its head. Al-Dawsari’s goal, in particular, was a moment of pure brilliance, as he danced past several defenders before unleashing an unstoppable shot into the top corner.

Saudi Arabia's coach, Hervé Renard, deserves immense credit for his tactical masterclass. He set up his team to be compact and disciplined, stifling Argentina’s creativity and exploiting their high defensive line with quick counter-attacks. Goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais also had a stellar performance, making several crucial saves to deny Argentina’s comeback attempts. The victory sparked scenes of wild jubilation in Saudi Arabia, with a national holiday declared to celebrate the historic win. For Argentina, it was a wake-up call that forced them to recalibrate and ultimately spurred them on to win the tournament, making their journey even more compelling.

This match will be remembered not just for the upset itself but for the sheer audacity and belief that Saudi Arabia displayed. They didn't just defend; they attacked with purpose and took their chances when they came. It was a victory that epitomized the magic of the World Cup, where anything can happen, and underdogs can become heroes.

2. Japan vs. Germany: Samurai Blue Stuns the World

Next up, we have Japan's equally surprising 2-1 victory over Germany. Germany, a four-time World Cup winner, came into the tournament looking to reassert their dominance on the world stage. Japan, while a respectable team, was not expected to pose a serious threat in a group that also included Spain. However, Japan had other ideas, displaying incredible resilience and tactical nous to secure a memorable win.

The match started with Germany in control, and they took the lead through an Ilkay Gündoğan penalty in the first half. Germany continued to dominate possession and create chances, but Japan remained organized and disciplined. In the second half, Japan’s coach, Hajime Moriyasu, made some inspired substitutions that changed the game completely. Ritsu Doan and Takuma Asano, both brought on from the bench, scored two late goals to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

Doan’s equalizer came from a rebound after Manuel Neuer saved a shot, while Asano’s winner was a moment of individual brilliance. He beat his marker with pace and power before firing a thunderous shot past Neuer at his near post. The Japanese players celebrated with unbridled joy, while the German team looked shell-shocked. This win not only boosted Japan’s chances of qualifying for the knockout stages but also sent a message to the rest of the world that they were a force to be reckoned with.

Japan’s victory was a testament to their meticulous preparation and tactical flexibility. They were able to adapt their game plan according to the situation, switching from a defensive approach in the first half to a more attacking one in the second. Their fitness and stamina also played a crucial role, as they outran and outfought the German team in the closing stages. This match showed that the gap between the traditional footballing powers and the emerging nations is closing, and that hard work and tactical acumen can overcome even the most formidable opponents.

3. Tunisia vs. France: Eagles Soar, but Not Enough

Tunisia's 1-0 victory over France was another significant upset, although it ultimately wasn't enough to see them through to the knockout stages. France, the defending champions, had already qualified for the last 16 and made several changes to their starting lineup for this match. However, that doesn't diminish Tunisia’s achievement, as they put in a spirited performance and deservedly took all three points.

Wahbi Khazri scored the only goal of the game in the second half, capitalizing on a defensive lapse by the French team. Tunisia defended resolutely for the remainder of the match, frustrating France’s attempts to find an equalizer. Although France had a late goal disallowed for offside, Tunisia held on to secure a famous victory. The win sparked wild celebrations among the Tunisian players and fans, who were proud of their team’s performance against one of the world’s best teams.

Tunisia's coach, Jalel Kadri, set up his team to be defensively solid and difficult to break down. They worked tirelessly to close down spaces and prevent France from creating clear-cut chances. Their victory was a reward for their hard work and determination, and it showed that even the most dominant teams can be vulnerable if they are not at their best. While Tunisia’s World Cup journey ended in the group stage, their win against France will be remembered as a moment of great pride and achievement.

4. Cameroon vs. Brazil: Indomitable Lions Roar Despite Exit

Cameroon’s 1-0 victory over Brazil was another shock result, although it came in a match where Brazil had already secured their place in the knockout stages and made several changes to their starting lineup. Still, defeating Brazil is no small feat, and Cameroon’s players can be proud of their performance.

Vincent Aboubakar scored the only goal of the game in stoppage time, heading home a cross to give Cameroon a late lead. Aboubakar was later sent off for removing his shirt during the celebration, but his goal proved to be the winner. Cameroon defended bravely throughout the match, denying Brazil’s attacking players space and time on the ball. Their victory was a testament to their resilience and determination, and it showed that they are capable of competing with the best teams in the world.

Cameroon's coach, Rigobert Song, instilled a sense of belief and fighting spirit in his team. They played with passion and intensity, never giving up despite being under pressure for long periods. While Cameroon’s World Cup campaign ended in disappointment, their win against Brazil will be remembered as a moment of great pride and achievement. It also highlighted the importance of squad depth and the ability to perform even when key players are rested.

5. South Korea vs. Portugal: Taegeuk Warriors' Late Surge

South Korea's dramatic 2-1 victory over Portugal was a crucial result that secured their place in the knockout stages. Portugal, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, had already qualified for the last 16, but South Korea needed a win to have any chance of progressing. In a thrilling encounter, South Korea showed great character and determination to come from behind and snatch victory.

Portugal took the lead early on through Ricardo Horta, but South Korea equalized through Kim Young-gwon in the first half. The match remained evenly contested until stoppage time when Hwang Hee-chan scored a late winner to send South Korea through. The South Korean players and fans erupted in jubilation, while the Portuguese team were left to rue their missed opportunities. This victory showcased South Korea's never-say-die attitude and their ability to perform under pressure.

South Korea's coach, Paulo Bento, instilled a strong sense of teamwork and discipline in his team. They worked tirelessly for each other, pressing high and defending deep when needed. Their victory was a reward for their collective effort and their unwavering belief in their ability to succeed. This match proved that South Korea is a team to be reckoned with on the world stage, and that they have the potential to cause problems for any opponent.

6. Morocco vs. Belgium: Atlas Lions' Stunning Triumph

Finally, we have Morocco’s impressive 2-0 victory over Belgium, a result that sent shockwaves through the footballing world. Belgium, ranked second in the world, were expected to cruise through their group, but Morocco had other ideas. In a dominant performance, the Atlas Lions outplayed and outfought the Red Devils to secure a famous win.

Romain Saïss and Zakaria Aboukhlal scored the goals for Morocco, but it was their overall performance that impressed the most. They were organized, disciplined, and full of energy, denying Belgium’s star-studded attack any space or time on the ball. Morocco’s victory was a testament to their hard work, tactical acumen, and team spirit, and it showed that they are a force to be reckoned with in international football. This win was a catalyst for Morocco's incredible run to the semi-finals, making them the first African team to ever reach that stage.

Morocco's coach, Walid Regragui, deserves immense credit for his tactical masterclass. He set up his team to be defensively solid and dangerous on the counter-attack, exploiting Belgium’s weaknesses and stifling their strengths. Goalkeeper Yassine Bounou also had a fantastic game, making several crucial saves to keep Belgium at bay. This victory was not just a win for Morocco but for the entire African continent, inspiring hope and belief in the power of teamwork and determination.

These six upsets remind us why we love football. The 2022 World Cup was a tournament filled with drama, surprises, and unforgettable moments. These underdog victories added an extra layer of excitement and showcased the true spirit of the game. Whether it was Saudi Arabia's miracle against Argentina, Japan's resilience against Germany, or Morocco's stunning triumph over Belgium, these moments will be etched in the memories of football fans for years to come. So, let's raise a glass to the underdogs, the game-changers, and the unforgettable shocks of the 2022 World Cup!