Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals after beating Switzerland 3-1 in extra time in a dramatic quarter-final. A stunning late goal from Julián Álvarez and a late finish from Lautaro Martínez helped the South American side secure victory after a hard-fought contest. The result sets up a highly anticipated semi-final against England.
Argentina started the match with confidence and controlled possession during the opening stages. Their early pressure paid off in the 10th minute when Alexis Mac Allister headed home from a well-placed corner. The midfielder found space near the front post and directed his effort past goalkeeper Gregor Kobel to give Argentina a deserved lead.
After taking the lead, Argentina continued to move the ball well but failed to add a second goal. Switzerland stayed organized in defense and waited for chances to attack on the counter. Their disciplined approach kept the match close and prevented Argentina from taking full control.
Switzerland improved after the break and began creating better opportunities. Their persistence was rewarded midway through the second half when Dan Ndoye scored the equalizer. The goal lifted the Swiss side and increased the pressure on Argentina, who struggled to regain the rhythm they showed in the first half.
With the score level, both teams searched for a winning goal before the end of normal time. Lionel Messi had a few chances but found it difficult to break through the Swiss defense. Gregor Kobel also produced several important saves to keep Switzerland in the match and force extra time.
The game changed during the second half of extra time after Switzerland were reduced to 10 players. Breel Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation following a VAR review. Officials used the recently introduced mistaken identity process to reverse an earlier booking and instead penalized Embolo. The striker left the field disappointed as Switzerland prepared to finish the match with one player fewer.
Despite the setback, Switzerland defended bravely and looked capable of taking the game to penalties. Their defenders blocked several attacks, while Kobel continued to make important saves. Argentina kept pushing forward but struggled to find space against the determined Swiss back line.
The breakthrough finally arrived late in extra time through a moment of brilliance from Julián Álvarez. After Switzerland failed to clear the ball, substitute José López collected possession on the left side and played a simple pass backward. Álvarez took one touch before curling a powerful shot from outside the penalty area into the top corner. Kobel had no chance of stopping the strike as Argentina celebrated a crucial goal.
The stunning finish completely changed the match. Switzerland tried to respond but had little time left to create another chance. Their hopes faded further when Argentina launched a quick counterattack in the closing minutes.
Lautaro Martínez sealed the victory shortly before the final whistle. Thiago Almada’s effort was saved by Kobel, but Martínez reacted first to score from the rebound. His goal confirmed Argentina’s place in the last four and ended Switzerland’s impressive World Cup run.
Messi did not score, but he played an important role throughout the match by creating chances and leading Argentina’s attack. Although Switzerland limited his influence for long periods, his movement and passing continued to trouble the defense. His teammates stepped forward when it mattered most and delivered the goals needed to secure victory.
Switzerland leave the tournament with plenty of credit after another disciplined performance. They defended well for long stretches and challenged one of the tournament favorites until the closing moments of extra time. Playing with 10 men made the task even harder, but they continued to fight until the final whistle.
Argentina will now face England in the World Cup semi-finals in one of the tournament’s biggest matches. The meeting will bring together two football powers with a long history on the international stage. After surviving another dramatic knockout match, Argentina remain on course for the World Cup title and will hope to carry their momentum into the semi-final.
