Argentina emerged victorious over Switzerland with a 3-1 win in overtime on Saturday, securing their place in the semifinals of the 2026 World Cup. The quarterfinal match, held at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, required 120 minutes to reach a conclusion.
The South American team took an early lead in the 10th minute thanks to a goal from Alexis Mac Allister. However, Switzerland leveled the score in the 67th minute with a goal from Dan Ndoye, forcing the match into extra time with a 1-1 tie.
Key Turning Point: Embolo's Expulsion
A pivotal moment occurred in the 72nd minute when Breel Embolo received his second yellow card for simulating a foul on Leandro Paredes. After a VAR review, Embolo was expelled, leaving the Swiss team with only ten players for the duration of overtime.
Taking advantage of their numerical superiority, Argentina dominated the extra time. Julián Álvarez scored in the 112th minute to put them ahead 2-1, and Lautaro Martínez sealed the victory with a goal in the 120th minute, ending the match 3-1.
Statistical Highlights: Argentina's Dominance
The statistics underscored Argentina's dominance throughout the game: they enjoyed 59% possession compared to Switzerland's 41%, fired 19 total shots against the Europeans' 11, and earned seven corners while Switzerland managed two. Both teams had five shots on target.
Regarding discipline, Argentina received three yellow cards—Almada in the 97th, Lautaro Martínez in the 98th, and J. López in the 114th. Switzerland, on the other hand, had two yellow cards and the crucial red card for Embolo.
Looking Ahead: Semifinal Showdown with England
With this result, the reigning world champions from Qatar 2022 advance to the semifinals, where they will face England on Wednesday, July 15, in Atlanta. England secured their spot earlier on Saturday by defeating Norway 2-1, with a brace from Jude Bellingham.
At 39 years old, Lionel Messi adds yet another World Cup semifinal to his illustrious career, potentially his last tournament at this level. He currently leads the tournament's Golden Boot race with eight goals and has become the all-time top scorer in World Cup history with 18 goals, surpassing Miroslav Klose's record of 16.
Key Insights into Argentina's World Cup Journey
Who scored for Argentina in their match against Switzerland?
Alexis Mac Allister, Julián Álvarez, and Lautaro Martínez scored for Argentina.
What was a key turning point in the match?
The expulsion of Breel Embolo in the 72nd minute for a second yellow card was a pivotal moment, giving Argentina a numerical advantage.
Who will Argentina face in the semifinals?
Argentina will face England in the semifinals.
How has Lionel Messi performed in this World Cup?
Lionel Messi leads the Golden Boot race with 8 goals and has become the top scorer in World Cup history with 18 goals.