Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the semifinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Switzerland 3-1 following extra time in a dramatic quarterfinal clash.
Argentina made a bright start and took the lead in the 10th minute when Alexis Mac Allister calmly finished to give Lionel Scaloni’s side an early advantage.
Switzerland refused to back down and produced a spirited response, eventually drawing level in the second half to send the contest into extra time after the teams could not be separated in regulation.
With the match heading towards a penalty shootout, Julián Álvarez stepped up in the 112th minute to restore Argentina’s lead with a crucial finish that put the South Americans on the brink of qualification.
Substitute Lautaro Martínez then wrapped up the victory deep into stoppage time of extra time, scoring in the 120+1st minute to seal a 3-1 triumph and end Switzerland’s impressive World Cup campaign.
The victory sends the reigning world champions into the semifinals, where they will face England in a blockbuster showdown in Atlanta on Wednesday for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
Goals:
– Alexis Mac Allister (10′) – Argentina
– Julián Álvarez (112′) – Argentina
– Lautaro Martínez (120+1′) – Argentina
Argentina will now turn their attention to England as they continue their quest to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup title.
Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of The Accra Daily Mail, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.
