Argentina have booked a place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating 10-man Switzerland 3-1 after extra time in a hard-fought quarter-final in Kansas City.
Julian Alvarez produced the decisive goal with a stunning long-range strike in extra time before Lautaro Martinez added another late goal to seal victory and send the defending champions into a last-four meeting with England.
Switzerland reduced to 10 men after VAR review
Argentina made the brighter start and took the lead in the 10th minute when Alexis Mac Allister flicked5 Lionel Messi’s corner into the net at the near post.
However, Switzerland gradually took control and were rewarded in the 67th minute.
Dan Ndoye combined with Ricardo Rodriguez before firing a low effort through the legs of goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez to bring the European side level.
The match turned midway through the second half when Swiss striker Breel Embolo was sent off after a VAR intervention.
Referee initially booked Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes for fouling Embolo, but the decision was reviewed under the mistaken identity protocol.
Replays showed Embolo had simulated contact, prompting the referee to overturn Paredes’ yellow card and issue a second booking to the Swiss forward, reducing Switzerland to 10 men.
Alvarez strike seals Argentina victory
Argentina capitalised on their numerical advantage in extra time as Alvarez curled a superb effort from outside the penalty area beyond goalkeeper Gregor Kobel to restore his side’s lead.
Switzerland pushed forward in search of another equaliser but left space at the back, allowing Lautaro Martinez to finish off a counter-attack late in the game to secure the victory.
The result keeps Argentina’s hopes of retaining the World Cup alive, with Lionel Scaloni’s side now preparing for a semi-final clash against England.