Argentina defeats Switzerland 3-1 to qualify for FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals
Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring for Argentina in the tenth minute, marking the first time in over 17 hours of World Cup football that Switzerland had fallen behind. Argentina held that lead until past the hour mark as Switzerland struggled to create clear chances against a well-organised defence.
Switzerland equalised through Dan Ndoye's neat finish shortly after the hour, briefly threatening to complete an upset over the world champions.Switzerland's momentum was dashed moments later when Breel Embolo was sent off following a VAR review, leaving the Swiss to play the remainder of the match with ten men.
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Despite the numerical disadvantage, Switzerland's defence held firm through the first period of extra time, with goalkeeper Gregor Kobel making several important saves to keep the tie alive.
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Julian Alvarez finally broke Switzerland's resistance in the 112th minute with a curling strike from distance, a goal FIFA later described as a golazo.
Lautaro Martinez added a third for Argentina in first-half stoppage time of the second extra period, sealing the 3-1 win.
The win marked Argentina's 15th consecutive World Cup match with a goal, the sixth-longest scoring streak in tournament history, and made them the first team ever to score twice in the same extra-time half in multiple matches at one World Cup.
Semifinal against England awaits
The result ended Switzerland's most successful World Cup campaign since 1954, while Argentina advanced to the semifinals for the third time in four tournaments. Lionel Scaloni's side will face England in the semifinal in Atlanta, four days after their quarterfinal win.
