And in just a matter of weeks, we are at the closing stages of the 2022 World Cup. The Qatar edition of the tournament was the first time that it was held during the winter. There were so many memorable instances over the last few weeks, and so many upset wins where the underdogs came up with a surprise.
However, to narrow it down – here are the five biggest shocks from the 2022 World Cup.
Top 5 Biggest Shocks From the 2022 World Cup
Argentina 1-2 Saudi Arabia
The Albiceleste have made it to the finals of the tournament, as they were expected to. But their campaign started with a shocking loss against Saudi Arabia. And since then, they have been mighty impressive, overcoming every opponent that has stood up against them.
Morocco 0-0 Spain (Morocco win 3-0 on penalties)
Morocco have beaten Belgium, Spain and Portugal on their way to the World Cup semifinals.
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) December 10, 2022
What an achievement 🙏 pic.twitter.com/JUquQVCZXP
Spain were the favourites to make it through to the quarter finals following the draw. But, they were defeated 3-0 on penalties, with Bono saving every spot kick in the shootout – in what was a performance of a lifetime from the Sevilla goalkeeper.
Morocco 1-0 Portugal
The Atlas Lions have progressed to the semi-finals, defeating Morocco in the quarter finals to seal their spot. In the process, they ended the World Cup hopes of Cristiano Ronaldo in what could be his last time at the tournament. A spill from Diogo Costa resulted in the only goal being scored – and Morocco are yet to be scored against by any opposition team in Qatar.
Japan 2-1 Spain
Asian football has really stepped up this year, with Japan, South Korea and Australia making it to the Round of 16. Japan earned their place in the knockout stages with a stunning win against Spain, in a do or die situation for the team.
Group stage exits
Germany, Belgium, Uruguay and Mexico were all eliminated in the group stages of the tournament. Their performance really wasn’t up to expectations, with all four expected to make it out of their groups. But, the sheer quality on display at the tournament made it very difficult – and they could not find a way out in the end.
