Saudi Arabia lined up in a 4-3-3 formation, with a focus on pressing high and exploiting Argentina's slow build-up. Their high defensive line caught Argentina's frontline offside thrice, showcasing their tactical discipline. After going a goal down due to Messi's penalty, Saudi Arabia adapted superbly. They changed their attacking strategy, finding space behind Argentina's full-backs. Saleh Al-Shehri's equalizer came from an incisive counter-attack through the left flank. Just five minutes later, Salah Al-Dawsari scored a stunning winner from outside the box, catching Argentina's defense off guard. Argentina, utilizing a 4-3-3, struggled to cope with Saudi Arabia's pressing. Messi often dropped deep to collect the ball, leaving his side without an adequate presence in the box, ultimately leading to their defeat despite dominating possession.