Argentina secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals following a tense 3-1 victory in extra time against a determined Switzerland side reduced to ten men. The match, held on السبت in Kansas City, marked the third consecutive knockout round in which the reigning champions endured a dramatic test to keep their title defense alive.
From the outset, Lionel Scaloni’s squad asserted their intent. After only ten minutes, a well-crafted set-piece from Lionel Messi saw Alexis Mac Allister rise above the Swiss defenders to guide a header into the far corner of the net, granting Argentina an early lead.
Although Argentina controlled possession for much of the first half, Switzerland gradually found their footing. Their efforts culminated in a deserved equalizer in the 67th minute, when Dan Ndoye capitalized on a pinpoint pass from Ricardo Rodriguez to finish past goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
The turning point arrived shortly after, when Breel Embolo received ثانية واحدة yellow card following a VAR review for simulation, leaving Switzerland with ten players for the remainder of the match.
Resilience and Extra-Time Drama
Despite being a man down, Switzerland’s defense remained resolute, frustrating Argentina’s attempts to regain the lead before the final whistle. Mac Allister came close with a header from close range, and Messi tested the Swiss goalkeeper with a curling shot narrowly missing the target. The deadlock persisted, pushing the encounter into extra time.
Throughout the initial period of extra time, Switzerland continued to repel relentless Argentine attacks, holding firm as penalties loomed. However, Argentina’s persistence ultimately paid off in the additional minutes, securing their passage to the semi-finals and sustaining their pursuit of back-to-back World Cup glory.