Defending champions Argentina needed extra time to overcome a resilient 10-man Switzerland side, securing a dramatic 3-1 victory in their 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final, Boldsports report.
The win sends Lionel Scaloni’s men into the last four, where they will meet England after another tense knockout contest.
Argentina entered the match after edging Egypt in the Round of 16, while Lionel Messi arrived with eight goals in the tournament, having broken the all-time World Cup scoring record. Although the 39-year-old failed to score for the first time in his last 10 World Cup matches, he still played a decisive role by providing the assist for Argentina’s opening goal.
Argentina made a strong start in Kansas City and moved ahead after just 10 minutes. Alexis Mac Allister rose highest to meet Messi’s corner and guided a looping header beyond Gregor Kobel.
Despite taking the lead, Argentina struggled to create further clear chances. Switzerland remained disciplined and gradually grew into the contest, forcing the South American champions to defend for long periods.
Dan Ndoye rewarded Switzerland’s persistence in the 67th minute by finishing past Emiliano Martinez to level the score and set up a tense finale.
The momentum shifted five minutes later when Breel Embolo received a second yellow card. Following a VAR review, the referee ruled that the Swiss forward had simulated contact, reducing Switzerland to 10 players for the remainder of the match.
Argentina pressed relentlessly but failed to break down the organised Swiss defence before the end of normal time. Messi came closest in stoppage time, firing narrowly wide as the match headed into extra time.
Switzerland defended bravely for much of the additional 30 minutes, but the resistance finally ended in the 112th minute.
Julian Alvarez produced the breakthrough with a stunning curling strike from long range that flew beyond Kobel to restore Argentina’s lead.
Lautaro Martinez then removed any remaining doubt in the 121st minute, finishing clinically to complete a 3-1 victory and send Argentina into another World Cup semi-final.
The reigning champions will now renew their historic rivalry with England on July 15 in Atlanta, with a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at stake.
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