Defending Champion Argentina Beats Switzerland 3-1 in Extra Time, World Top Four Reach Semifinals

In the last quarterfinal of the World Cup, defending champion Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 after extra time to advance to the semifinals. For the first time in history, the top four FIFA-ranked teams—Argentina, Spain, France, and England—will compete in the semifinals.

KANSAS CITY, USA, July 11 — In the final quarterfinal match of the World Cup, defending champion Argentina overcame a resilient Switzerland side 3-1 after extra time to book their place in the semifinals. The victory not only keeps Argentina's title defense alive but also sets up a historic semifinal lineup featuring the top four FIFA-ranked teams: Argentina, Spain, France, and England. Played at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City in front of a capacity crowd, the match saw Argentina dominate possession early on, but Switzerland's disciplined defense and quick counterattacks posed constant threats. In the 28th minute, Swiss striker Breel Embolo latched onto a through ball and slotted past the goalkeeper to give Switzerland a shock 1-0 lead. Argentina responded with increased pressure, but Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer made several crucial saves to keep his team ahead. Argentina continued to push in the second half, and their persistence paid off in the 67th minute. Lionel Messi delivered a perfectly weighted through ball to Julian Alvarez, who raced onto it and fired a low shot into the far corner to level the score at 1-1. Neither side could find a winner in regular time, sending the match into extra time. In the 98th minute, Argentina won a corner. Messi's delivery was met by Cristian Romero, whose header struck the crossbar. Lautaro Martinez was quickest to react, slotting home the rebound to give Argentina a 2-1 lead. With five minutes left in extra time, Argentina sealed the victory on a counterattack. Messi carried the ball forward before feeding Angel Di Maria on the left, who crossed for substitute Leandro Paredes to tap into an empty net, making it 3-1. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised his team's resilience: "It was a very tough match. Switzerland caused us a lot of problems, but the players showed champion character. We deserved to win." Switzerland coach Murat Yakin expressed pride in his team's performance: "We were almost perfect, but Argentina has world-class players who took their chances." With Argentina's win, the semifinal lineup is set: Argentina will face Spain, while France takes on England. All four teams are traditional powerhouses and occupy the top four spots in the FIFA rankings, a first in World Cup history. The semifinals will be played on July 14 and 15, with the final scheduled for July 18. Argentina's victory extends their unbeaten run in World Cup knockout matches (since losing to France on penalties in 2018, they won the 2022 title and remain unbeaten in 2026). Messi contributed two assists, further extending his record for most assists in World Cup history. Switzerland, despite their elimination, earned widespread respect for their valiant effort.

Defending Champion Argentina Beats Switzerland 3-1 in Extra Time, World Top Four Reach Semifinals

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