Argentina beat Switzerland after extra time to reach World Cup semi-finals

KANSAS CITY: Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals after defeating Switzerland 3-1 following extra time in a dramatic quarter-final here at Arrowhead Stadium on Saturday, extending their title defence with a third consecutive hard-fought knockout victory.

Lionel Scaloni's side showed resilience once again as they overcame stubborn Swiss resistance to set up a blockbuster last-four clash against England, who defeated Norway 2-1 after extra time earlier in the day.

Argentina made a bright start and took the lead in the 10th minute when Alexis Mac Allister powered a header into the net from Lionel Messi's perfectly delivered corner, giving the South American giants an early advantage.

Switzerland responded strongly after the interval and found the equaliser in the 67th minute through Dan Ndoye, who finished calmly to bring the European side back into the contest and force an intense finale.

The Swiss suffered a major setback five minutes later when Breel Embolo was shown a red card following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, leaving his side to play the remainder of the match with 10 men.

Despite their numerical advantage, Argentina were unable to find a winner in normal time, sending the quarter-final into extra time.

The defending champions eventually made their superiority count as Julian Alvarez restored their lead before Lautaro Martinez added a late goal to seal a 3-1 victory and secure Argentina's place in the semi-finals.

Argentina will now take on England in Atlanta on Wednesday, with a place in the World Cup final at stake as Scaloni's men continue their pursuit of consecutive world titles.