Argentina reaches the World Cup 2026 semifinals after defeating Switzerland 3-1 in a quarterfinal decided in extra time. Multiple reports say the match remains level at 1-1 through regulation, pushing the contest into extra time. Switzerland plays with 10 men, and the defending champions eventually break the deadlock deep into the extra period.
Julián Álvarez scores the decisive goal in the 112th minute, described across outlets as a long-range, curling strike. After Álvarez gives Argentina the lead, Lautaro Martínez adds a late insurance goal in stoppage time to extend Argentina’s advantage and make the final score 3-1. Several sources emphasize the dramatic, close nature of the knockout match and note that Argentina again relies on extra time to progress.
While Messi’s World Cup scoring run is mentioned in one report, the overall accounts focus on Álvarez’s extra-time breakthrough, Switzerland’s red-card situation leading to the 10-man deficit, and Martínez’s late goal as Argentina advances to the last four.
