Argentina booked a place in the World Cup semi-finals after Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez scored in extra time to secure a 3-1 victory over Switzerland on Saturday.
The reigning champions took the lead in the 10th minute when Alexis Mac Allister met Lionel Messi’s corner at the near post with a flicked header that flew beyond goalkeeper Gregor Kobel and into the far corner. The goal marked the first time Switzerland had fallen behind in the tournament.
After a subdued opening half, the match came to life following the interval, with Switzerland increasing the pressure and forcing Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez into a series of impressive saves.
The equaliser arrived in the 67th minute as Switzerland’s persistence paid off. Dan Ndoye combined with Ricardo Rodriguez on the left before calmly finishing with a right-footed strike through Martinez’s legs.
The Swiss were later reduced to 10 players when Breel Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation. The decision followed a lengthy VAR review after the referee initially booked Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes before correcting the mistake.
With the match heading into extra time, Argentina found the decisive breakthrough. Alvarez produced a composed curling finish to restore the lead, before Lautaro Martinez added a third with a close-range effort to seal victory.
Argentina’s win sets up a World Cup semi-final clash with England as the holders continue their pursuit of back-to-back titles.
