Argentina beat Switzerland after extra time to set up World Cup 2026 semi-final against England
Semi-final clash with England confirmed after Kansas City thriller
KANSAS CITY – Argentina secured the final place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals after defeating Switzerland 3-1 following extra time in a gripping quarter-final in Kansas City.
The reigning world champions looked on course for victory after an early breakthrough from Alexis Mac Allister, but Switzerland responded strongly in the second half to force another 30 minutes of football. Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez eventually settled the contest with late extra-time goals, sending Lionel Scaloni’s side into a heavyweight semi-final against England.
The victory kept Argentina’s title defence firmly on course and completed the tournament’s last-four line-up. Switzerland, meanwhile, exited after producing another disciplined display that stretched one of the favourites to the limit before running out of time in extra time.
Early advantage
Argentina made a confident start and took the lead in the 10th minute through Mac Allister. The midfielder capped a fluent attacking move with a composed finish to give his side an early advantage and settle any nerves inside the stadium.
The South Americans controlled possession for much of the opening period, using quick passing and movement to keep Switzerland on the defensive. Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández and Rodrigo De Paul dictated the tempo in midfield, while Argentina continued to search for openings in the final third.
Switzerland remained organised despite falling behind and gradually found their rhythm as the first half progressed. Their compact defensive shape frustrated Argentina for long spells, preventing the defending champions from extending their lead before the interval.
Swiss response
The balance of the contest shifted after the restart as Switzerland grew in confidence and committed more players forward. Their persistence paid off in the 67th minute when Dan Ndoye found the equaliser, finishing calmly to bring the European side level and set up an enthralling final phase.
Argentina attempted to restore their lead during the closing stages of normal time, but Switzerland defended resolutely and limited clear-cut opportunities. Both teams searched for a decisive goal, yet neither could find the breakthrough as the match finished 1-1 after 90 minutes.
With the scores level, the quarter-final headed into extra time, where physical and mental resilience became increasingly important. Argentina continued to press, while Switzerland looked to exploit any opportunity on the counter-attack.
Late surge
The decisive moment finally arrived in the 112th minute. Julián Álvarez restored Argentina's lead with a clinical finish after sustained pressure, putting the defending champions within touching distance of the semi-finals.
Switzerland attempted one final response but found little space against Argentina's disciplined defence. As the second period of extra time began, Lautaro Martínez added a third goal in the opening minute to end the contest and remove any lingering doubt over the outcome.
The 3-1 scoreline ultimately reflected Argentina's ability to produce decisive moments when it mattered most. Mac Allister's early strike had laid the platform, while Álvarez and Martínez delivered the finishing touches deep into extra time.
Argentina will now travel to Atlanta for a blockbuster semi-final against England after the Three Lions overcame Norway 2-1 following extra time earlier on Saturday. The meeting will pit two of the tournament's strongest sides against each other, with a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at stake.