Argentina Beat Switzerland 3-1 After Extra Time

Lionel Scaloni's men entered the match as favourites and made the perfect start, taking the lead inside the opening 10 minutes. Alexis Mac Allister headed home from Lionel Messi's corner to put Argentina ahead early.

Switzerland responded with determination but struggled to break down Argentina's disciplined defence during the first half. Despite enjoying periods of possession, the Swiss managed only one shot on target before the break, with goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez rarely troubled.

The Europeans came out strongly after the restart and nearly equalised in the 50th minute, only to be denied by an excellent defensive intervention from Lisandro Martínez and poor finishing.

Their persistence finally paid off in the 67th minute when Dan Ndoye levelled the score, finishing from Ricardo Rodríguez's pass after a well-worked attacking move.

However, Switzerland suffered a major setback five minutes later as Breel Embolo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for simulation, reducing his side to 10 men.

Argentina dominated the remainder of normal time, creating a series of chances against the depleted Swiss defence. Despite sustained pressure, the Albiceleste were unable to find a winner in regulation or the nine minutes of added time, forcing the match into extra time.

Switzerland continued to defend resolutely and looked set to take the contest to a penalty shootout. But Argentina finally broke the deadlock in the 116th minute when Julián Álvarez curled a superb shot into the net after being set up by López.

With Switzerland pushing forward in search of another equaliser, Lautaro Martínez added a third goal in stoppage time of extra time to seal a 3-1 victory.

The win sends Argentina into the World Cup semi-finals, where Lionel Messi and his teammates will face England in a blockbuster clash.

MMR