Argentina booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals with a 3-1 extra-time win over 10-man Switzerland in Kansas City.
The defending champions will now face England in the last four after a dramatic contest that stayed level until the closing minutes of extra time.
Argentina took the lead early through Alexis Mac Allister, who headed in a Lionel Messi corner. The assist was Messi’s 10th in World Cup history, making him the first player to reach that mark since assists began being officially recorded.
Switzerland fought back after the break and deservedly equalised through Dan Ndoye. The match then took another twist when Breel Embolo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card.
The referee had initially booked Leandro Paredes for a challenge, but a VAR review overturned the decision. Paredes’ yellow card was cancelled and Embolo was instead booked for simulation, earning his second yellow card of the match.
Despite playing with 10 men, Switzerland held Argentina until the final minutes of extra time.
Julian Alvarez finally broke the deadlock in the 112th minute with a stunning strike from around 25 yards that flew into the top corner.
Lautaro Martinez sealed the victory in stoppage time of extra time after his first effort was saved before he converted the rebound.
Lionel Scaloni’s side are now through to the semi-finals, where they will meet England, who defeated Norway 2-1 after extra time earlier on Sunday.
