Argentina outclass Switzerland to set up World Cup semi-final against England

Defending champions Argentina defeated 10-man Switzerland 3-1 after extra time to book their place in the semi-finals of the FIFA 2026 World Cup, setting up a blockbuster showdown with England.

Julian Alvarez produced a moment of brilliance in extra time before Lautaro Martinez added another, as Lionel Scaloni’s side finally broke the stubborn Swiss team’s resistance at Kansas City Stadium.

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Argentina will now face England in Wednesday’s semi-final in Atlanta, with a place in the World Cup final against either France or Spain at stake.

Mac Allister gives Argentina early advantage

Switzerland made a bright start, but Argentina took the lead through an unlikely scorer. Lionel Messi’s corner found Alexis Mac Allister, who rose above much taller defenders to power home a header.

VAR drama leaves Switzerland with 10 men

The match turned dramatically in the second half when Switzerland were reduced to 10 men following a VAR intervention.

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Breel Embolo, who had already been booked, was initially awarded a free-kick after appearing to be fouled by Leandro Paredes near the halfway line, with the Argentine midfielder shown a yellow card.

However, after a VAR review for mistaken identity, replays showed Embolo had simulated the contact. The referee rescinded Paredes’ booking and instead issued Embolo a second yellow card for diving, leaving Switzerland a man down and sparking furious protests from the Swiss players.

Alvarez and Martinez settle extra-time battle

Despite their numerical advantage, Argentina were forced into extra time before Alvarez broke the deadlock with a stunning strike. Lautaro Martinez then added a third to seal victory after Switzerland had briefly threatened a comeback.

England await as Argentina chase history

The win also saw Argentina become the first team in World Cup history to score two goals in the same period of extra time in multiple matches at a single tournament.

Lionel Messi and his teammates will now turn their attention to England as they seek to keep alive their bid to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to defend the FIFA World Cup title successfully.