Defending champions Argentina secured their place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Switzerland 3-1 in a dramatic quarter-final that went to extra time at Kansas City Stadium in the United States.
Argentina made a fast start and took the lead in the 10th minute when Alexis Mac Allister headed home from a corner delivered by captain Lionel Messi. However, Switzerland responded strongly and equalized in the 67th minute through Dan Ndoye, setting up a fiercely contested encounter.
The match took a major turn in the 72nd minute when Switzerland striker Breel Embolo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for simulation inside the penalty area. Despite being reduced to 10 men, Switzerland defended with great discipline and prevented Argentina from finding a winning goal during the regulation 90 minutes.
Argentina's quality finally showed in extra time. Forward Julián Álvarez scored the decisive second goal in the 112th minute with a powerful strike that beat goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, sparking celebrations among the Albiceleste supporters.
As Switzerland pushed forward in search of a late equalizer, they left space at the back, which Lautaro Martínez exploited by scoring Argentina's third goal in the 121st minute to seal a 3-1 victory.
Captain Lionel Messi, playing in his sixth World Cup at the age of 39, provided the assist for the opening goal and remained a key figure throughout the match despite missing several scoring opportunities.
The victory keeps Argentina's title defense alive as they aim to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully retain the FIFA World Cup trophy.
With the win, Argentina will now face England in a highly anticipated semi-final expected to be one of the biggest matches of the tournament. Meanwhile, the other semi-final will see France take on Spain as the four remaining teams battle for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
