Argentina kept their hopes of defending the FIFA World Cup alive after securing a dramatic 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland in their quarter-final clash in Kansas City.
The reigning champions were pushed to their limits by a disciplined and determined Swiss side, who recovered from an early setback and forced the match beyond 90 minutes. However, Switzerland’s task became much harder after Breel Embolo was controversially sent off during the second half.
Late goals from Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez eventually sent Argentina into the semi-finals, where they will face England.
Mac Allister Gives Argentina the Perfect Start
Argentina began the match with confidence and took the lead after only 10 minutes.
Lionel Messi delivered an accurate corner into the Switzerland penalty area, where Alexis Mac Allister rose above the defenders and directed a header into the net. The early goal allowed Argentina to control possession and dictate the pace of the opening stages.
Switzerland struggled to create clear opportunities during the first half, while Argentina looked comfortable moving the ball between midfield and attack. Messi remained heavily involved, dropping into deeper positions and attempting to create space for Álvarez and the supporting midfielders.
Despite Argentina’s control, Switzerland remained organised and prevented the defending champions from extending their advantage before half-time.
Switzerland Fight Their Way Back
Switzerland produced a much stronger performance after the break.
Granit Xhaka began to influence the midfield, while the Swiss attackers pressed Argentina’s defenders more aggressively. Their improvement was rewarded in the 67th minute when Dan Ndoye scored the equaliser.
The goal changed the mood of the contest. Argentina suddenly looked vulnerable, while Switzerland gained confidence and started believing that a major upset was possible.
However, the match turned again just five minutes later. Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation after going down during a challenge involving Leandro Paredes.
The decision was reviewed as part of a VAR check, but the yellow card remained in place and Embolo was sent off. Switzerland coach Murat Yakin later criticised the decision, arguing that the incident should have been handled differently.
Ten-Man Switzerland Show Courage
Despite being reduced to 10 players, Switzerland refused to surrender.
Yakin reorganised his team into a compact defensive shape, forcing Argentina to attack through crowded central areas. Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel made important saves, while the Swiss defenders blocked several attempts around the penalty area.
Argentina increased the pressure during the final stages of normal time, but they could not find a second goal. Messi came close on more than one occasion, although Switzerland continued to frustrate him with committed defending.
The match therefore moved into extra time with the score level at 1-1.
Switzerland’s players were beginning to tire, but they continued to defend bravely as Argentina dominated possession and searched for a breakthrough.
Álvarez Produces the Decisive Moment
The decisive goal finally arrived in the 112th minute.
Álvarez collected the ball outside the penalty area before producing a powerful long-range strike that flew beyond Kobel. It was a spectacular goal and a cruel blow for a Swiss team that had defended with determination for much of the match.
Switzerland pushed forward in search of another equaliser, but the extra space allowed Argentina to attack on the counter.
Lautaro Martínez completed the victory in the 121st minute when he reacted quickest to a loose ball and scored Argentina’s third goal. The final score was harsh on Switzerland, who had competed strongly before Embolo’s dismissal changed the direction of the match.
Argentina Prepare for England Challenge
The victory extended Argentina’s defence of the World Cup and secured a mouth-watering semi-final against England.
Coach Lionel Scaloni praised his players for remaining patient during another difficult knockout match. He said Argentina had become comfortable dealing with pressure and suggested that suffering had become part of the team’s identity.
Argentina will need to improve before facing England, particularly after allowing Switzerland to take control during parts of the second half.
Nevertheless, the champions once again demonstrated their resilience. With Messi continuing to provide leadership and players such as Álvarez, Mac Allister and Martínez delivering important goals, Argentina remain firmly in contention to lift the trophy for a second consecutive tournament.