Argentina Defeats Switzerland to Reach 2026 World Cup Semifinals

Argentina advanced to the semifinals of the 2026 World Cup after a dramatic 3-1 victory over Switzerland in extra time on the night between Saturday and Sunday. The reigning world champions took an early lead in the 10th minute when Lionel Messi assisted Alexis Mac Allister, marking Messi's record-breaking tenth World Cup assist. Switzerland then dominated much of the match, equalizing in the 67th minute through Dan Ndoye following a well-executed team move.

A controversial moment occurred shortly after when referee initially gave Leandro Paredes a yellow card but, after VAR review, issued a second yellow to Swiss player Breel Embolo for simulation, reducing Switzerland to ten men. Despite the numerical advantage, Argentina struggled to break through Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel's strong performance. The breakthrough came in the 112th minute with a powerful strike from Julián Álvarez, giving Argentina the lead.

In stoppage time of extra time, Lautaro Martínez sealed the win with a third goal, finalizing the score at 3-1. Argentina will now face England in the semifinals, setting up a highly anticipated clash between two historic football rivals for a place in the final.