Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after defeating Switzerland 3-1 following extra time in a thrilling quarter-final clash on Saturday.
The reigning world champions made a bright start and broke the deadlock in the 10th minute when Alexis Mac Allister calmly finished from close range after a flowing attacking move. Argentina controlled much of the opening half and carried their slender advantage into the break.
Switzerland came back stronger after halftime and found an equaliser in the 67th minute through Dan Ndoye, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to level the score and force Argentina to work harder for a place in the last four.
Despite creating several chances in the closing stages of normal time, neither side could find a winner, sending the contest into extra time.
Lionel Scaloni’s side regained control when Julián Álvarez struck in the 112th minute, giving Argentina a crucial lead after sustained pressure inside the Swiss penalty area.
With Switzerland pushing numbers forward in search of another equaliser, Lautaro Martínez sealed the victory deep into extra-time stoppage time, scoring in the 120th+1 minute to spark jubilant celebrations among the Argentine players and supporters.
The victory sees Argentina advance to the semi-finals, where they remain on course to defend the FIFA World Cup title.
The South Americans once again showed their resilience and ability to deliver in decisive moments, with Alvarez and Martinez proving the difference when it mattered most.
Switzerland exit the tournament with their heads held high after a spirited performance that pushed one of the competition’s favourites into extra time.
However, their hopes of a historic semi-final appearance were ended by Argentina’s clinical finishing in the final minutes.
Argentina will now turn their attention to the semi-finals as they continue their pursuit of back-to-back FIFA World Cup titles.
