Argentina, the defending champions, have secured their place in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after a 3-1 victory over ten-man Switzerland. The match, held at Kansas City Stadium, extended into extra time, with Julian Alvarez scoring a decisive long-range goal.
The South American side initially took the lead in the 10th minute when Alexis Mac Allister headed in a cross from Lionel Messi. Despite this early advantage, Argentina did not display the dominant performance they might have hoped for during regular play.
Switzerland managed to level the score in the 67th minute. Dan Ndoye found the back of the net from close range, bringing the European side back into contention. The match then saw a controversial moment involving Breel Embolo.
In the 72nd minute, Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation. The referee, Joao Pinheiro, initially made a decision regarding a booking for Argentina’s Leandro Paredes. However, VAR intervened, requesting a review to determine if there had been a case of mistaken identity, a new rule for this tournament. Following the review, the decision was changed, leading to Embolo’s dismissal from the field.
Argentina pressed for a winning goal in normal time. Lisandro Martinez had an opportunity with virtually the last kick of the period, attempting a scissor-kick from a loose ball in the box, but his effort lacked the power to beat the goalkeeper. Lionel Messi also had a one-on-one chance, but his chip was saved. Replays suggested that Messi’s effort, which was initially flagged for offside, might have stood had it gone in, potentially marking his ninth goal in six appearances at the tournament.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 112th minute by Julian Alvarez. His powerful shot from 25 yards rifled into the top right corner of the goal, giving Argentina the lead once more. As Switzerland pushed forward in the final moments, they left gaps in their defence.
Lautaro Martinez capitalised on a counterattack deep into stoppage time during extra time. Following an initial shot from Thiago Almada that deflected into his path, Martinez slotted home Argentina’s third goal, sealing their victory. This win means Argentina will now face England in the semi-finals.
The path to the semi-finals has been challenging for Argentina, who were also pushed to extra time in the round of 32 by Cape Verde. This taxing schedule could be a factor as they progress further in the competition. Only two nations, Italy and Brazil, have successfully defended a World Cup title in the past.
Switzerland’s journey to the quarter-finals marked their first appearance at this stage since 1954. They had reached this point after beating Colombia in the previous round, winning on penalties after a goalless draw. Argentina, on the other hand, had overcome an initial scare in the last eight, turning around a two-goal deficit against Egypt with 11 minutes remaining in that match.
The upcoming semi-final clash between Argentina and England is scheduled for Wednesday in Atlanta. The other semi-final will see Spain play against France on Tuesday. France was the team Argentina defeated in the final of Qatar 2022.
England also experienced a demanding quarter-final, needing extra time to defeat Norway on Saturday. Despite the physical demands of the tournament, Lionel Messi, at 39 years old, continues to demonstrate his determination and ability to produce decisive moments for his team.
The match between Argentina and Switzerland was broadcast on ITV 1.
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Source: aljazeera.com
