Argentina survive Swiss scare to reach World Cup semi-finals
Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals after defeating Switzerland 3-1 following extra time in a thrilling quarter-final clash. The victory sets up a blockbuster semi-final showdown with England after a match that tested Argentina\'s character from start to finish.
Argentina made the perfect start when Alexis Mac Allister headed home from a Lionel Messi corner in the 10th minute, giving Lionel Scaloni\'s side an early advantage. Switzerland refused to back down and gradually grew into the contest before Dan Ndoye levelled the score in the 67th minute, ensuring the match headed into a tense finale.
The game took another dramatic turn when Swiss striker Breel Embolo was sent off after a controversial VAR review, leaving Switzerland to battle with 10 men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Swiss defended heroically and forced the reigning champions into extra time.
With penalties looming, Julián Álvarez produced the decisive moment in the 112th minute, unleashing a superb strike to restore Argentina\'s lead. Deep into stoppage time of extra time, Lautaro Martínez finished off a counterattack to seal a 3-1 victory and send Argentina into the last four.
The result keeps Argentina\'s dream of retaining the World Cup alive. Lionel Messi once again orchestrated the attack with an assist, while Mac Allister, Álvarez and Martínez delivered the goals that carried La Albiceleste through another dramatic knockout battle. Argentina will now face England in one of the most anticipated semi-finals of the tournament, with a place in the World Cup final at stake.
