Argentina overcame a determined Swiss challenge to win 3-1 after extra time, securing a place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals where they will face England.
KANSAS CITY: Argentina kept their FIFA World Cup title defence alive after producing a commanding extra-time display to defeat Switzerland 3-1 in a dramatic quarter-final. The victory secured the reigning champions a place in the semi-finals, where they will meet England in one of the tournament’s most anticipated clashes.
The South American side made a confident start and took the lead after just 10 minutes. Alexis Mac Allister rose highest to head home from a Lionel Messi corner, giving Argentina an early advantage and rewarding their bright opening spell.
Argentina controlled possession for much of the first half and looked comfortable, but Switzerland gradually settled into the contest. Their disciplined defending frustrated the defending champions, while quick counter-attacks began to test Argentina’s back line as the match progressed.
How did Switzerland fight back?
Switzerland’s persistence paid off in the 67th minute when Dan Ndoye found the equaliser after a well-worked attacking move. The goal changed the momentum of the match, lifting Swiss confidence while forcing Argentina to raise their intensity.
Both teams created opportunities during the closing stages of normal time, but neither could find the decisive breakthrough. Argentina continued to press through Messi and Julián Álvarez, while Switzerland remained organised and dangerous on the break.
With the score level at 1-1 after 90 minutes, the quarter-final moved into extra time, setting up another tense chapter in an already gripping contest.
What changed in extra time?
Argentina’s greater attacking depth and experience eventually made the difference. As Switzerland began to tire, the reigning world champions increased the pressure and created more space in the final third.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 112th minute when Julián Álvarez restored Argentina’s lead with a clinical finish, sending the Argentine supporters inside the stadium into celebration.
Switzerland pushed forward in search of another equaliser, but the increased attacking risk left gaps in defence. Argentina took full advantage at the start of the second period of extra time when Lautaro Martínez calmly finished a swift attacking move to make it 3-1 and effectively seal the result.
The late goals underlined Argentina’s ability to perform under pressure and demonstrated why they remain among the favourites to lift the FIFA World Cup trophy once again.
The victory also highlights the squad’s attacking strength beyond its experienced stars. While Messi played a key role in creating the opening goal, Álvarez and Martínez delivered when the match demanded decisive finishing.
For Switzerland, the defeat marked the end of an impressive campaign. The European side matched Argentina for long periods and showed resilience throughout the knockout stages, but they were ultimately unable to withstand the sustained pressure during extra time.
Argentina now move one step closer to retaining their world title and will face England in a blockbuster semi-final. With both nations carrying rich footballing histories and talented squads, the encounter promises to be one of the standout matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup as they compete for a place in the final.
