Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after defeating a spirited Switzerland 3-1 following extra time in the tournament’s fourth and final quarter-final, the 100th match of the competition.
The reigning world champions were made to work for every moment of their victory as Switzerland produced an energetic and confident opening display. The Swiss dominated possession early on, moving the ball with purpose and refusing to allow Argentina to settle into their rhythm. Their positive start briefly left Lionel Scaloni’s side looking unusually nervous.
However, Argentina struck first against the run of play in the 17th minute. A well-delivered corner found Alexis Mac Allister, who rose above Manuel Akanji at the near post before expertly glancing a header into the far corner. It was a superb piece of technique from the midfielder, giving Switzerland their first deficit of the entire tournament.
The breakthrough transformed the contest. Argentina suddenly found their rhythm, with Julián Álvarez leading the press brilliantly and forcing errors high up the pitch as the South Americans began to dictate proceedings.
Switzerland refused to back down and were rewarded for their persistence in the 67th minute. Dan Ndoye found the equaliser, finishing confidently to bring the Swiss level and reignite hopes of a historic semi-final appearance.
Just five minutes later, the complexion of the match changed dramatically. Breel Embolo received his second yellow card of the evening for simulation, reducing Switzerland to ten men in the 72nd minute. The emotional striker departed the field as his teammates were left with the daunting task of holding off Argentina for the remainder of normal time.
Despite the numerical advantage, Argentina were unable to find a decisive breakthrough before the end of the 90 minutes, sending the final quarter-final into extra time.
The decisive moment finally arrived in extra time when Julián Álvarez produced a moment of brilliance. The Argentine forward fired home a stunning finish to restore his side’s lead before Argentina added another goal to seal a 3-1 victory and confirm their return to the FIFA World Cup semi-finals.
The result keeps Argentina’s dream of successfully defending their world title alive, while Switzerland bow out after an impressive tournament in which they pushed the defending champions all the way.
With the quarter-finals now complete, the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final line-up is officially confirmed:
Semi-Finals
- 15 July – 12:30 AM (SLST) : France vs Spain
- 16 July – 12:30 AM (SLST) : England vs Argentina
For the first time ever, the FIFA World Rankings’ top 4 teams have all reached the semi-finals. The best of the best are battling for a place in the final.
