Argentina survived a huge scare against 10-man Switzerland to book their place in the World Cup semi-finals, where they will face England after a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory in Kansas City.
The Match
The reigning World Cup champions looked to be cruising when Alexis Mac Allister flicked home Lionel Messi’s corner at the near post after just 10 minutes. But Switzerland grew into the game and deservedly equalized through Nottingham Forest winger Dan Ndoye, who cut inside, played a one-two with Ricardo Rodriguez, and tucked his finish through Emiliano Martinez’s legs.
The match took a dramatic turn when Swiss star striker Breel Embolo was sent off following a VAR review for simulation. Initially, Leandro Paredes was booked for a foul on Embolo, but the referee was called to the monitor under the mistaken identity rule and saw that Embolo had clearly dived. Having already been booked, the Swiss forward received a second yellow card and was dismissed — leaving him in tears and his teammates furious.
Alvarez’s Moment of Magic
With extra time looming, Argentina laid siege to the Swiss goal but found Gregor Kobel in inspired form. The breakthrough finally came courtesy of Julián Álvarez, who picked up the ball 25 yards from goal and curled a stunning effort into the top corner — leaving Kobel with no chance. It was a moment of individual brilliance that broke Swiss hearts.
Lautaro Martínez added a third on the counter-attack as Switzerland pushed for an equalizer, sealing Argentina’s place in the last four.
Records Tumble for Messi
While Lionel Messi failed to score for the first time this tournament, he still etched his name into the record books. The Argentine magician became the first player in World Cup history to register 10 assists, adding yet another milestone to his unparalleled career.
Argentina also set a new World Cup record for the longest sequence of scoring multiple goals in consecutive matches — netting at least twice in each of their past 11 games, surpassing Uruguay’s run from 1930–1954.
Switzerland’s Quarter-Final Curse Continues
For Switzerland, it was more quarter-final heartbreak. They have now played six matches in the last eight of major competitions and lost every single one. Missing key midfielder Johan Manzambi through injury proved costly as they lacked creativity in the final third after Embolo’s dismissal.
Upcoming Fixtures
- Semi-Final 1: France vs Spain — Tuesday, 14 July, Atlanta
- Semi-Final 2: Argentina vs England — Wednesday, 15 July, Atlanta (20:00 BST)
- Final: Sunday, 19 July — New Jersey
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Breel Embolo sent off?
Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation (diving) after a VAR review. The referee initially booked Leandro Paredes for a foul, but VAR showed that Embolo went to ground with no contact from the Argentine midfielder, triggering a mistaken identity review.
When and where is the Argentina vs England semi-final?
The match will be played at 20:00 BST on Wednesday, 15 July 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. The winner will face either France or Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday, 19 July.