Argentina survived a monumental scare against 10-man Switzerland in Kansas City, winning 3-1 after extra time to book a mouth-watering World Cup semi-final against England on Wednesday night in Atlanta.
How the Drama Unfolded
It all started so smoothly for the reigning champions. Just ten minutes in, Lionel Messi swung in a pinpoint corner and Alexis Mac Allister flicked a beautiful header past Gregor Kobel at the near post. Argentina looked in control.
But Switzerland refused to roll over. They grew into the game, and their reward came in the 67th minute when Nottingham Forest’s Dan Ndoye cut inside, played a sharp one-two with Ricardo Rodriguez, and slotted his finish through the legs of Emiliano Martinez. 1-1, and game on.
Embolo Red Card Shifts the Balance
The match took a controversial turn when Switzerland striker Breel Embolo was given a second yellow card for diving following a VAR review. Embolo went to ground near the halfway line under a challenge from Leandro Paredes — but replays showed no contact was made. The referee overturned Paredes’ booking under the mistaken identity rule and instead sent off the distraught Embolo.
Down to ten men, Switzerland dug deep. But Argentina’s quality eventually told.
Alvarez Magic Breaks Swiss Hearts
With extra time looming and Argentina struggling to break through, Julian Alvarez produced a moment of pure brilliance. Picking the ball up 25 yards from goal, the Manchester City forward curled an unstoppable effort into the top corner, leaving Kobel rooted to the spot.
Switzerland pushed for a late equaliser, but were caught on the counter-attack as Lautaro Martinez slotted home to make it 3-1 and seal the win.
Records and Milestones
Despite a quiet night by his standards, Lionel Messi still made history — becoming the first player ever to register 10 assists in World Cup matches. Argentina also set a new record for the longest sequence of scoring multiple goals in consecutive World Cup games (11 matches), surpassing Uruguay’s run from 1930–1954.
For Switzerland, it was another painful quarter-final exit. They have now played six matches in the last eight of major tournaments — and lost every single one.
World Cup 2026 Semi-Final Schedule
- France vs Spain — Tuesday, 14 July, 20:00 BST (Dallas)
- Argentina vs England — Wednesday, 15 July, 20:00 BST (Atlanta)
- Final — Sunday, 19 July, 20:00 BST (New York New Jersey Stadium)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Breel Embolo sent off?
Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation (diving). The referee initially booked Leandro Paredes for a foul, but VAR review under the mistaken identity rule showed the Argentine defender made no contact and Embolo had clearly simulated. The yellow card was transferred to Embolo as his second booking, resulting in a red card.
Who will Argentina face in the semi-final?
Argentina will take on England in the semi-final on Wednesday, 15 July at 20:00 BST in Atlanta, Georgia. The match will be broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
What is Argentina’s record in their last 11 World Cup matches?
Argentina have scored at least two goals in each of their last 11 World Cup matches — a new record in the competition’s history. They have also scored in 15 consecutive World Cup games overall.
Which team are you backing to lift the trophy? Let us know in the comments!