FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 after extra time to reach semi-finals

Argentina kept their FIFA World Cup title defence alive with a hard-fought 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland in the quarter-finals, setting up a mouth-watering last-four clash against England.

Lionel Scaloni’s side looked in control after taking an early lead but were forced to dig deep following Switzerland’s second-half equaliser. The contest finally swung in Argentina’s favour after the Swiss were reduced to 10 men, before late strikes from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez sealed the result.

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Argentina made the brighter start and was rewarded in the 10th minute. Lionel Messi’s inswinging corner found Alexis Mac Allister, who rose above his marker to head home and give the South Americans an early advantage.

The opening goal, however, did little to open up the contest. Switzerland tightened up defensively while Argentina controlled possession without creating many clear-cut chances, carrying their slender lead into the break.

Switzerland emerged with renewed intent after halftime and were rewarded when Dan Ndoye combined neatly on the edge of the box before curling an excellent finish beyond Emiliano Martinez to restore parity.

The game took another twist in the 72nd minute as Breel Embolo was shown a second yellow card following a VAR review for simulation, leaving Switzerland to play the remainder of the match with 10 men.

Argentina immediately increased the pressure, pinning their opponents inside their own half. Lisandro Martinez came agonisingly close to restoring the lead with an acrobatic overhead kick, only for Gregor Kobel to produce an outstanding save.

Despite dominating possession, Argentina struggled to find a way through during normal time, sending the tie into extra time.

The breakthrough finally arrived when Julian Alvarez cut in from the left and rifled a stunning strike into the top corner, giving Argentina the lead they had been chasing.

Switzerland’s hopes of another comeback were extinguished moments later. A swift counterattack ended with Lautaro Martinez reacting quickest to a loose ball inside the penalty area, calmly converting from close range to complete a 3-1 victory.

The win also extended Argentina’s impressive World Cup scoring streak to 15 consecutive matches, moving them closer to the all-time tournament record. They will now face England in Thursday’s semi-final as both nations bid for a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.