Defending champions Argentina booked a blockbuster FIFA World Cup semi-final against England after defeating 10-man Switzerland 3-1 after extra time in a gripping quarter-final in Kansas City on Saturday.
Julian Álvarez produced a moment of brilliance deep into extra time as Lionel Scaloni’s side finally broke Switzerland’s stubborn resistance before Lautaro Martínez sealed victory with a late third goal.
The reigning world champions had taken an early lead through Alexis Mac Allister, only for Switzerland to fight back and force extra time despite being reduced to 10 men in the closing stages of normal time.
Backed by a sea of passionate Argentine supporters at Arrowhead Stadium, La Albiceleste made a dream start when Lionel Messi’s pinpoint corner found Mac Allister, who rose above Djibril Sow and Breel Embolo to head home after just 10 minutes.
The assist was another milestone for Messi, taking his tally to 10 across six FIFA World Cups, although the eight-goal tournament joint-top scorer was unable to add to his personal haul.
Switzerland gradually settled into the contest and created several promising opportunities, with goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez producing an important save to deny Embolo midway through the first half.
The Swiss, who enjoyed more possession for long periods, deservedly drew level in the 67th minute when Dan Ndoye calmly finished after an intelligent pass from Ricardo Rodríguez.
However, their hopes suffered a major setback five minutes later when Embolo, already on a yellow card, was dismissed after being shown a second booking for simulation following a VAR review.
Despite their numerical advantage, Argentina struggled to find a winner before the end of regulation time. Mac Allister missed a glorious headed chance, while Messi curled an effort narrowly wide as Switzerland held firm to force an additional 30 minutes.
The European side continued to frustrate the South Americans in extra time, defending heroically against relentless pressure.
But with penalties looming, Álvarez produced the decisive moment in the 112th minute, curling a magnificent effort into the top corner to finally break Switzerland’s resistance.
Martínez then wrapped up victory with a late strike, sparking jubilant celebrations among the Argentine squad and supporters.
The victory extends Argentina’s unbeaten World Cup run to 12 matches as they continue their quest to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup title.
Scaloni’s side now face England in a mouthwatering semi-final in Atlanta on Wednesday after Thomas Tuchel’s men edged Norway 2-1 earlier on Saturday.
The meeting rekindles one of international football’s fiercest rivalries, with previous World Cup encounters producing some of the sport’s most memorable moments.
Their 1986 quarter-final remains iconic after Diego Maradona inspired Argentina to a 2-1 victory with the infamous “Hand of God” goal and a breathtaking solo effort widely regarded as one of the greatest goals in World Cup history.
The sides have met twice at the World Cup since then, with Argentina prevailing on penalties in 1998 before England exacted revenge with victory in 2002.
With both footballing giants now just one win away from another World Cup final, Wednesday’s showdown promises to be one of the defining matches of the 2026 tournament.
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