Argentina sink Switzerland to set up England semi

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Argentina's dream of winning another World Cup title got a major boost yesterday, July 11, when they defeated Switzerland 2-1 in extra time in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals. This win will set them up to face fierce rivals England in the second semi-final at Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday, July 14. Argentina's victory came after a back-and-forth match that saw Switzerland's Breel Embolo sent off for simulation, before Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez struck in extra time. A thrilling contest that was marked by several missed chances for both sides, ultimately ended in favour of the Argentines.

Argentina's Lionel Messi swung in a corner in the 20th minute that saw Alexis Mac Allister, a 1.76-metre tall player, head the ball into goal despite being surrounded by towering opponents. They were indebted to Emiliano Martinez for staying ahead of Embolo who broke free from Lisandro Martinez's handcuffs and raced through on goal, only for the goalkeeper to race from his line and avert the danger. A defense-piercing Messi pass sent Nahuel Molina racing towards goal shortly into the second half, but the right-back dragged his shot wide.

Switzerland suddenly took over and Dan Ndoye, after having one attempt heroically blocked by Lisandro and another saved superbly by Emiliano, slotted them level. The contest then swung back into Argentina's favour when, in the 72nd minute, Embolo collected his second yellow card for simulation and was sent off. Messi almost snatched victory in normal time when he jinked inside and, with his right foot, curled the ball narrowly wide.

Thiago Almada clipped the outside of Gregor Kobel’s post at the start of extra time, before a breathtaking Alvarez curler put Argentina in front and Lautaro sealed the deal. This hard-fought win by Argentina is their first major victory over a Swiss team in their history.

This match was Argentina's first major victory over a Swiss team in their history.

Lionel Messi's brilliance was on full display yesterday as he set up the winning goal for Alexis Mac Allister in the 20th minute

Argentina's hard-fought win over a determined Swiss team has sent shockwaves around the football world.