Key Takeaways
- Julian Alvarez scored a crucial goal for Argentina in the 112th minute.
- Lionel Messi set up Alexis Mac Allister’s opening goal early in the match.
- The victory sets up an exciting semi-final against England.
Argentina secured their place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals with a hard-fought 3-1 win over 10-man Switzerland after extra-time on Sunday. The match, played at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, saw Julian Alvarez score the decisive goal in the 112th minute, securing Argentina's passage to face England.
The victory came early for fans of the South American team as Lionel Messi set up Alexis Mac Allister’s opening goal just 10 minutes into the game. However, Switzerland levelled midway through the second half when Dan Ndoye converted a well-worked opportunity.
Tragedy struck for the Swiss side in the 72nd minute when Embolo was sent off after picking up his second yellow card for simulation. This left Switzerland with ten men and under immense pressure to hold on, but their efforts were thwarted by Argentina’s relentless attacks.
The match went into extra-time as both teams struggled to break through. Switzerland managed to repel wave after wave of Argentine attacks until Alvarez delivered a breathtaking strike in the 112th minute. Lautaro Martinez added a late third goal to seal the victory for Argentina.
Argentina’s win means they are now unbeaten in their past 12 World Cup matches, setting them up as strong contenders for the title. The team has been performing well throughout the tournament but faced challenges against minnows Cape Verde and needed a comeback against Egypt.
The semi-final match will see Argentina face England in Atlanta. Lionel Scaloni’s men are aiming to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain their World Cup crown, with the top four teams in the FIFA rankings set to contest the semi-finals of the 2026 tournament.
Despite the attritional nature of the match, Argentina’s performance was a testament to their resilience and skill. Messi, who is joint top of the Golden Boot standings with eight goals, did not find the net on Sunday but provided key assists throughout the game.
