What Have Been The Biggest Surprises Of Qatar 2022
Right from the first group games, the Qatar 2022 cup has been full of exciting surprises. Major upsets by lower-ranked teams against the favourites have made the tournament a genuinely thrilling experience.
The tournament’s group stages saw the underdogs showing that they were there to make a significant impact. Below, we highlight the biggest surprises of the Qatar 2022 tournament.
Saudi Arabia’s Win Against Argentina
On 22 November 2022, Saudi Arabia defeated Argentina 2-1 in a major upset. Saudi Arabia, ranked 51st by FIFA, was not expected to fare well against the world no. 3, Argentina.
Despite scoring a penalty in the 10th minute, Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, could not hold off the inspired Saudi side. Saudi Arabia’s Salem Al-Dawsari and Saleh Al-Shehri scored two goals seconds of each other to take the lead.
The Saudi team, managed by Frenchman Hervé Renard, held on to the advantage throughout the rest of the game. The match was so significant that FIFA included it in the most remarkable World Cup upsets list.
Cameroon Upsets Brazil
It was a historical moment when Cameroon, ranked 43rd in the world, defeated Brazil, the top-ranked team. Many did not expect Cameroon to earn a draw against the South American giants. The “second-string” side playing for Brazil failed to convert any of their seven shots on target into a goal.
Cameroon’s Vincent Aboubakar scored in the 92nd minute to secure the win and make history. Cameroon had not won a World Cup match since 2002. Aboubakar became only the third African player to score against Brazil in a World Cup.
He received a red card penalty for shirt removal during his goal celebration. However, social media praised the gesture. Despite this victory, Cameroon was unable to qualify for the knockout stage.
Japan Beats Germany
Despite not being considered a strong footballing nation, the Blue Samurai always give their all on the pitch. In their first match at the 2022 Qatar tournament against Germany, Japan faced a formidable opponent. They conceded a penalty in the 33rd minute, putting them behind 0-1.
However, they refused to give up and fought until the end. Substitute players Ritsu Dōan and Takuma Asano turned the game around in the second half. Dōan scored in the 75th minute and Asano in the 83rd.
For the first time since the 1994 tournament, Germany lost a World Cup match after being in the lead during a game. Celebrations ran across Japan, with people dancing on the streets in Tokyo. It was a truly proud moment for the Asian country.
Such major upsets had an impact on game odds. This was evident in game odds adjustments smartbettingguide.com for the upcoming Morocco and Japan games at the World Cup.
By looking at how the teams and individual players perform during the tournament, it’s possible to do this. A betting guide can go a long way in helping bettors navigate the uncertainties of major tournaments such as the Qatar Cup 2022.
