Kathmandu, June 12: Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after defeating Switzerland 3-1 in extra time in the final quarter-final on Sunday.
The thrilling encounter at Kansas City Stadium ended 1-1 after 90 minutes before Argentina struck twice in extra time to seal victory and set up a blockbuster semi-final clash with England.
Alexis Mac Allister, Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez were on target for Argentina, while Dan Ndoye scored Switzerland’s only goal.
Argentina made a dream start when Mac Allister headed home Lionel Messi’s corner in the 10th minute to give the defending champions an early lead.
Switzerland responded in the 67th minute through Dan Ndoye, who brought his side level at 1-1 and forced the match into a tense finale.
The Swiss suffered a major setback in the 72nd minute when Breel Embolo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, leaving his team to play with 10 men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Switzerland held on until the end of regulation, sending the match into extra time.
Argentina finally regained the lead in the 112th minute when José López set up Julián Álvarez, who calmly finished to make it 2-1.
Lautaro Martínez then wrapped up the victory deep into stoppage time of extra time, scoring Argentina’s third goal to complete a 3-1 win.
With the victory, Argentina advance to the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals, where they will face England. England secured their place in the last four earlier on Sunday after defeating Norway 2-1 in extra time.
