Argentina Strengthens World Cup Bid with Extra Time Victory Over Switzerland, Advances to Semifinals
Argentina’s Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez delivered a thrilling performance in extra time, leading their team to a 3-1 victory over Switzerland in the quarter-finals of the World Cup. The match took place in Kansas City on Saturday, setting up a highly anticipated semi-final clash against England on Wednesday.
Lionel Messi’s squad remains in contention to become the first team to retain the World Cup since Brazil in 1962. The victory ignited celebrations among the Argentine supporters, marking the end of Switzerland’s remarkable tournament run.
Switzerland’s Journey Ends in Heartbreak
Switzerland reached the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time since 1954 but fell short of an unprecedented semi-final appearance. The team faced a significant setback when Breel Embolo was sent off for diving in the 72nd minute, leaving them with ten players.
The match, which was Kansas City’s final World Cup game, appeared destined for a penalty shootout until Alvarez struck a stunning long-range shot into the top corner in the 112th minute. Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel had no chance to save it.
Martinez sealed the victory for Argentina nine minutes later, calmly converting the rebound from Thiago Almada’s shot.
Early Advantage for Argentina
Argentina took the lead early in the match, with Alexis Mac Allister scoring in the 10th minute. He connected with Messi’s corner, flicking a header that sailed past Kobel into the far corner. This marked the first time Switzerland had trailed in the tournament.
Despite missing their leading scorer Johan Manzambi due to injury, Switzerland refused to back down. After a quiet first half, the Swiss team began to apply pressure, forcing Argentina’s goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez into a series of crucial saves.
The equalizer came in the 67th minute when Dan Ndoye exchanged passes with Ricardo Rodriguez before finishing through Martinez’s legs, igniting celebrations among the Swiss fans.
Controversial Red Card Changes the Game
Switzerland’s hopes were dashed when Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation after a lengthy VAR review. The referee overturned his initial decision to caution Argentina’s Leandro Paredes, leaving Swiss coach Murat Yakin furious.
Yakin expressed his frustration, stating that the decision “destroyed our game today” and lamented the painful nature of their elimination. Embolo left the pitch in tears, consoled by teammates.
Despite being a man down, Yakin praised his team’s passion and effort, expressing pride in their performance.
Argentina Capitalizes on Swiss Misfortune
Following Embolo’s dismissal, Argentina took control of the match, with fans creating an atmosphere reminiscent of Buenos Aires at Arrowhead Stadium. Chants of “Vamos, vamos!” filled the air as Argentina surged forward.
Messi, competing in his sixth World Cup at the age of 39, nearly secured the win in stoppage time with a powerful strike that narrowly missed the post. Switzerland’s defense held firm against relentless Argentine pressure, but their resilience ultimately crumbled in the final moments of extra time.
Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, acknowledged the challenges posed by Switzerland’s physical play but noted that luck played a role in their victory. He emphasized the significance of reaching the semi-finals.
As the match concluded, the distraught Swiss players consoled each other, while Argentina’s squad celebrated on the pitch. Messi, in a moment of triumph, twirled his shirt above his head in front of the jubilant Argentine fans.
Wednesday’s semi-final will be a historic encounter, marking the first time England faces Messi at a World Cup. Scaloni remarked that regardless of the opponent, Argentina would be prepared to face a strong team with an excellent coach.
As reported by www.arnnewscentre.ae.
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Published on 2026-07-12 09:12:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk