Argentina secured their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals after defeating Switzerland 3-1 after extra time in an absorbing quarter-final at Kansas City Stadium. The reigning world champions were pushed all the way by a determined Swiss side before late goals from Julián Álvarez and Lisandro Martínez sealed victory and set up a blockbuster semi-final against England.
The result keeps Argentina’s hopes of retaining the FIFA World Cup alive, while Switzerland bow out after producing one of the tournament’s most spirited performances.
Argentina Make a Dream Start
Lionel Scaloni’s side began the match with confidence and controlled possession from the opening whistle.
Their pressure paid off in the 10th minute when Alexis Mac Allister finished a flowing team move to hand Argentina an early lead. The Liverpool midfielder timed his run perfectly before calmly placing his effort beyond the Swiss goalkeeper.
Argentina continued to dominate possession throughout the first half, but Switzerland gradually settled into the contest and created several dangerous opportunities on the counterattack.
Switzerland Fight Back in the Second Half
Switzerland emerged from the break with greater attacking intent and deservedly found an equaliser in the 67th minute.
Dan Ndoye finished confidently after a well-worked move, bringing the Swiss level and shifting momentum in their favour. The goal rewarded Switzerland’s persistence and ensured the match remained finely balanced heading into the closing stages.
As both teams searched for a winner, the intensity increased, producing several crunching tackles and dramatic moments.
VAR Drama Changes the Match
One of the biggest talking points arrived late in normal time when Breel Embolo received a second yellow card following a VAR review.
The Swiss striker was adjudged to have simulated inside the penalty area, reducing Switzerland to 10 men for the remainder of the contest.
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Switzerland defended bravely to force extra time against the defending champions.
Argentina Take Control in Extra Time
Argentina finally made their advantage count during extra time.
In the 112th minute, Julián Álvarez restored Argentina’s lead with a composed finish after sustained pressure inside the Swiss penalty area. The Manchester City forward showed excellent composure to break Swiss resistance at a crucial moment.
Deep into stoppage time of extra time, Lisandro Martínez added a third goal in the 121st minute, finishing off a swift attacking move to confirm Argentina’s place in the semi-finals.
The late strike ensured the scoreline reflected Argentina’s dominance during extra time while ending Switzerland’s brave resistance.
Key Match Moments
- 10′ – Alexis Mac Allister gives Argentina an early lead.
- 67′ – Dan Ndoye equalises for Switzerland.
- Late Normal Time – Breel Embolo is sent off after receiving a second yellow card following a VAR review.
- 112′ – Julián Álvarez scores Argentina’s extra-time winner.
- 121′ – Lisandro Martínez seals a 3-1 victory with Argentina’s third goal.
- Full Time (AET): Argentina 3-1 Switzerland.
Argentina Set for England Showdown
Victory sends Argentina into another FIFA World Cup semi-final, where they will face England in one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures.
The defending champions have shown remarkable resilience throughout the knockout rounds, combining experience with attacking quality to overcome another stern European challenge.
With players such as Mac Allister, Álvarez, and Lionel Messi continuing to inspire the team, Argentina remain firmly on course to defend their world title.
Switzerland Exit With Pride
Switzerland’s World Cup journey comes to an end, but Murat Yakin’s side leaves the tournament with plenty of credit.
The Swiss matched Argentina for long spells, responded brilliantly after conceding early, and pushed one of football’s biggest nations into extra time despite eventually being reduced to ten men.
Dan Ndoye once again impressed in attack, while the team’s defensive organisation frustrated Argentina for much of the contest.
Although elimination is disappointing, Switzerland demonstrated they can compete with the world’s elite on football’s biggest stage.
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Conclusion
Argentina overcame a resilient Swiss side to claim a hard-fought 3-1 extra-time victory and book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals. Goals from Alexis Mac Allister, Julián Álvarez, and Lisandro Martínez ensured the reigning champions survived another major test and remain firmly in contention to retain the trophy.
Attention now turns to a mouthwatering semi-final against England, where two football giants will battle for a place in the World Cup final.
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