Argentina Triumphs in Extra Time
Argentina secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Switzerland in extra time to advance to the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The match, played on July 11, 2026, saw Julian Alvarez score the decisive goal in the 105th minute, breaking a 1-1 deadlock that had persisted through regular time.
Messi's Scoring Streak Ends
Lionel Messi's remarkable streak of scoring in nine consecutive World Cup matches came to an end. The Argentine captain came close in the 78th minute when his 18-yard strike was saved by Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, who tipped the ball onto the crossbar. Despite the missed opportunity, Messi remained influential, setting up Alvarez's winner with a clever through ball.
Switzerland's Equalizer
Switzerland had taken the lead in the 38th minute through a well-worked counterattack, but Argentina equalized just before halftime when Angel Di Maria curled a free kick into the top corner. The Swiss defense held firm for the remainder of the second half, forcing extra time.
Alvarez's Decisive Strike
In the 105th minute, Alvarez controlled a pass from Messi inside the box, turned his marker, and fired a low shot past Kobel to put Argentina ahead. The goal sparked jubilant celebrations among Argentine fans, who had been anxious after a tense second half. Switzerland pushed for an equalizer in the second period of extra time but failed to find the target.
Argentina's Semifinal Opponent
Argentina will now face the winner of the quarterfinal between Brazil and Portugal. The match is scheduled to take place on July 15, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Argentina will be aiming to reach their second consecutive World Cup final after winning the 2022 edition.
Statistical Highlights
Argentina dominated possession with 62% and registered 14 shots, 6 on target, compared to Switzerland's 8 shots and 3 on target. Messi completed 89% of his passes and created 4 chances, while Alvarez scored his third goal of the tournament. Switzerland's Kobel made 5 saves, including the crucial stop against Messi.
According to FIFA statistics, this was the first time Argentina had been taken to extra time in the knockout stages since 2014. The victory extended Argentina's unbeaten run to 12 matches in World Cup play, dating back to their group stage loss to Saudi Arabia in 2022.
