Defending champions Argentina have booked a place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating 10-man Switzerland 3-1 after extra time in a dramatic quarter-final clash on Sunday in Kansas City.
The victory sets up a highly anticipated last-four encounter against England, reviving one of football’s fiercest international rivalries.
Argentina made a bright start at Arrowhead Stadium, taking the lead in the 10th minute when Alexis Mac Allister headed home from a Lionel Messi corner, giving the South Americans an early advantage before a crowd dominated by Argentine supporters.
Despite falling behind, Switzerland gradually grew into the contest and found a deserved equaliser in the 67th minute through Dan Ndoye, who finished neatly after being picked out by Ricardo Rodriguez.
Switzerland reduced to 10 men
The game took a decisive turn just minutes later when Swiss striker Breel Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation following a VAR review, leaving Switzerland to play the remainder of the match with 10 men.
Argentina piled on the pressure but were unable to find a winner in regulation time, forcing the match into extra time.
Alvarez inspires Argentina
With penalties looming, Julian Alvarez produced a moment of brilliance in the 112th minute, curling a spectacular strike into the top corner to restore Argentina’s lead.
Lautaro Martinez added a third goal in stoppage time of extra time to seal a hard-fought 3-1 victory and send Lionel Scaloni’s side into the semi-finals.
Reacting after the match, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledged the challenge posed by Switzerland.
“We had to suffer a lot but we knew they were a physical team. We had many difficulties. Sometimes we couldn’t find the solutions, but today we had luck on our side because one of their players was sent off.”
Messi continues to shine
Although he did not score, Lionel Messi played another influential role, providing the assist for Mac Allister’s opener to register his 10th World Cup assist across six tournaments.
The Argentina captain remains joint-top scorer in the race for the Golden Boot with eight goals alongside France’s Kylian Mbappé.
Argentina have now stretched their unbeaten World Cup run to 12 matches as they continue their bid to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup title.
Historic semi-final awaits
The semi-final against England promises another memorable chapter in one of football’s most storied rivalries.
The two nations have produced several iconic World Cup encounters, including Diego Maradona’s famous “Hand of God” and “Goal of the Century” during Argentina’s 2-1 victory at the 1986 World Cup.
England later gained revenge at the 2002 tournament after Argentina won their 1998 World Cup meeting on penalties.
The winner of Wednesday’s clash in Atlanta will advance to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
Discover more from VOICE OF THE PEOPLE
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
