Defending champions Argentina are through to the semifinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Switzerland 3-1 after extra time in a gripping quarterfinal that tested Lionel Scaloni’s side to the limit. The victory sets up a blockbuster last-four clash against England in Atlanta on Wednesday, July 15.
Argentina made the brighter start and were rewarded in the 10th minute when Alexis Mac Allister headed home from Lionel Messi’s corner to give La Albiceleste an early advantage. Messi’s delivery once again proved decisive, while Mac Allister continued his outstanding tournament with another crucial contribution.
Switzerland refused to be overawed and gradually grew into the contest. Their persistence paid off in the 67th minute when Dan Ndoye equalised, scoring only Switzerland’s third-ever goal in a World Cup quarterfinal after previous strikes in 1934 and 1954.
The Swiss suffered a major setback five minutes later when Breel Embolo became only the third Swiss player to be sent off in World Cup history following a VAR review, joining Valon Behrami (2010) and Michael Lang (2018). Despite playing with 10 men, Murat Yakin’s side defended resolutely and forced the reigning world champions into extra time.
With penalties looming, Julián Álvarez produced the defining moment of the night.
The Atlético Madrid striker curled a magnificent effort into the top corner in the 112th minute, leaving Gregor Kobel with no chance and sending the Argentina supporters inside Kansas City Stadium into celebration. Lautaro Martínez then added a third goal in stoppage time of extra time after following up a saved effort to secure Argentina’s place in the semifinals.
The result keeps Argentina’s dream of retaining the FIFA World Cup alive and extends Lionel Scaloni’s remarkable record in major tournaments. It also ensures football fans will witness another chapter in one of international football’s greatest rivalries when Argentina face England for a place in the final.
The semifinal will also bring together two nations led by world-class stars, with Lionel Messi continuing his pursuit of another World Cup title and England arriving full of confidence after eliminating Norway through Jude Bellingham’s extra-time winner.