Argentina Advances to World Cup Semifinals After 3-1 Win Over Switzerland

Argentina secured a 3-1 victory over Switzerland after extra time to reach the semifinals of the 2026 World Cup. The match extended to 120 minutes after Switzerland's Dan Ndoye forced extra time. In the 112th minute, Julián Álvarez scored a crucial goal hitting the crossbar, and Lautaro Martínez sealed the win in the final minute of extra time, sending Lionel Messi and Argentina to the next stage.

Despite the win, Argentina's performance was not dominant, continuing a pattern seen throughout the tournament where the team struggled to maintain control for long periods. Coach Lionel Scaloni, who has led the team for seven years, has transformed Argentina into a resilient squad that balances emotion with tactical discipline. The team now stands just two wins away from winning their fourth consecutive major tournament.

Julián Álvarez, initially a secondary figure in the squad, proved decisive with his key goal, rewarding the coach's trust despite his previously limited impact in the tournament. Argentina's path forward remains challenging, but the current squad's blend of experience and emerging talent keeps their championship hopes alive.