Defending champions Argentina secured their place in the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 by overcoming ten-man Switzerland with a score of 3-1 after extra time. The victory was highlighted by a stunning long-range goal from Julian Alvarez.

Early Lead and Swiss Resilience

Argentina took an early lead in the match held at Kansas City Stadium on Saturday, with Alexis Mac Allister heading in a cross from Lionel Messi in the 10th minute. However, the South American side struggled to maintain control of the game as Switzerland fought back, equalizing in the 67th minute through Dan Ndoye, who scored from close range.

Controversial Red Card and Late Drama

The match took a pivotal turn when Switzerland's Breel Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation in the 72nd minute, a decision that was confirmed after a VAR review. The Portuguese referee Joao Pinheiro initially booked Argentina’s Leandro Paredes but reversed the decision upon review, leading to Embolo's dismissal. Despite being a man down, Switzerland held firm against Argentina's attempts to find a winner in normal time. Lisandro Martinez came close to scoring with a scissor-kick that lacked the power to beat the goalkeeper, while Messi had a one-on-one opportunity that was saved, although it appeared he may have been onside.

Alvarez Shines in Extra Time

In extra time, it was Julian Alvarez who emerged as the hero, scoring a spectacular goal from 25 yards out in the 112th minute, which found the top right corner of the net. As Switzerland pushed forward in search of an equalizer, Argentina capitalized on the counterattack. Lautaro Martinez sealed the victory with a third goal deep into stoppage time, following a deflected shot from Thiago Almada.

With this win, Argentina will face England in the semifinals on Wednesday in Atlanta. The other semifinal will see Spain take on France, the team Argentina defeated in the final of the previous World Cup in Qatar 2022.