Argentina produced a commanding extra time display to defeat 10 man Switzerland 3-1 in a pulsating FIFA World Cup quarter final, securing a place in the last four where they will face England in one of the tournament’s most anticipated encounters.
The reigning world champions looked destined for another tense finish after Switzerland fought back from an early deficit, but Lionel Scaloni’s side found another gear in extra time as Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez struck late goals to send the Albiceleste into the semi finals.
Argentina made an ideal start and broke the deadlock in the 10th minute. A perfectly delivered corner from Lionel Messi found Alexis Mac Allister, who rose highest inside the penalty area to head beyond the Swiss goalkeeper and give his side a deserved early advantage. The goal rewarded Argentina’s aggressive opening, during which they controlled possession and repeatedly tested Switzerland’s defensive organisation.
Despite falling behind, Switzerland gradually settled into the contest and began creating opportunities through quick transitions. Their persistence paid off in the 67th minute when Dan Ndoye latched onto a precise through ball from Ricardo Rodríguez before calmly finishing past the Argentine goalkeeper to level the scores at 1-1.
The equaliser injected fresh energy into the Swiss side, but the complexion of the match changed dramatically when forward Breel Embolo was shown a red card following a VAR reviewed incident, reducing Switzerland to ten men for the remainder of the contest. The controversial dismissal sparked protests from the Swiss players and coaching staff, but the referee stood by the decision after consulting the video assistant.
Argentina dominated possession for the rest of normal time, with Messi orchestrating attacks from midfield while Nicolás González and Julián Álvarez searched for a decisive breakthrough. Switzerland defended with remarkable discipline, frustrating the South American giants and forcing the match into extra time.
With the numerical advantage finally beginning to show, Argentina found the winner in the 112th minute through Julián Álvarez. The Manchester City forward unleashed a superb long range strike that flew beyond the goalkeeper, sending the Argentine supporters into celebration and putting the defending champions within touching distance of the semi finals.
Switzerland pushed forward desperately in the closing moments, hoping to force a penalty shootout despite being a man down. However, the gamble left gaps at the back, and Argentina capitalised deep into stoppage time of extra time.
In the 120+1st minute, Lautaro Martínez raced onto a swift counterattack before finishing confidently into the corner of the net to seal a 3-1 victory and end Swiss resistance. The Inter Milan striker’s goal ensured there would be no late drama as Argentina comfortably booked their place in the semi finals.
Although Lionel Messi did not find the scoresheet, the captain once again demonstrated his influence by providing the assist for the opening goal and controlling the tempo throughout the contest. His creativity and leadership proved vital as Argentina overcame a stubborn Swiss side determined to reach the last four for the first time in decades.
Switzerland can leave the tournament with pride after producing another spirited display against one of football’s biggest nations. Their disciplined defending, organised midfield and dangerous counterattacks tested Argentina for long periods before the numerical disadvantage eventually took its toll.
For Argentina, attention now shifts to a mouth watering semi final against England, who edged Norway 2-1 after extra time in another thrilling quarter final. The meeting will revive one of international football’s most famous rivalries, with both teams chasing a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
The victory also keeps Argentina’s dream of successfully defending the World Cup alive. Having navigated another difficult knockout tie, Scaloni’s men remain just two victories away from lifting the famous trophy once again, but an in form England side now stands between the reigning champions and another appearance in football’s biggest final.
