Argentina defeats Switzerland to face England in semi-finals

Argentina defeated 10-man Switzerland in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on July 12, 2026. The match, which took place at an undisclosed location, ended with a score of 3-1 in favor of Argentina. Switzerland, reduced to 10 players after Breel Embolo received a second yellow card in the 72nd minute for simulation following a VAR review, managed to push the game into extra time.

Argentina took the lead early on when Alexis Mac Allister scored from a corner delivered by Lionel Messi. However, Switzerland struck back with a goal from Dan Ndoye in the 67th minute, equalizing the score at 1-1. As the match progressed into extra time, Julian Alvarez scored a stunning goal from 25 yards out to put Argentina ahead again. Lautaro Martinez sealed the victory in stoppage time, making it 3-1.

The upcoming semi-final will see Argentina face their longtime rivals England, who overcame Norway through extra time as well. Cristian Romero expressed pride in Argentina's performance, stating, "We never give up. We leave everything on the pitch, and it shows right up to the last minute. One more step to go."

Julian Alvarez, who previously played in the Premier League, reflected positively on the match, noting, "We knew if we kept going together, the goal would come." Lionel Scaloni, the team’s coach, acknowledged that Argentina was fortunate to win under difficult circumstances, but highlighted the historic nature of this achievement, as it marks their return to the World Cup semi-finals.