Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 after extra time in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final held on July 11 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri [1, 2, 3, 4]. Argentina started with the same lineup as in their round-of-16 match against Egypt, while Switzerland made one change, with Djibril Sow replacing Ardon Jashari [1].
Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring for Argentina in the 10th minute with a header from a Lionel Messi corner kick [2, 3, 4, 5]. Switzerland equalized in the 67th minute when Dan Ndoye scored from a tight angle [2, 3, 4, 5, 6]. Just five minutes later, Swiss forward Breel Embolo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for simulation, a decision confirmed by VAR [2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 6].
In extra time, Argentina took the lead in the 112th minute through a curling shot from Julian Alvarez to the top corner [2, 3, 4, 8, 5, 6]. Lautaro Martinez sealed the win in added time after Alvarez’s goal [2, 3, 4, 8, 5, 6]. Alvarez was named man of the match and reflected on the tournament’s difficulties, saying, "Obviously you have to suffer – you have to know how to suffer. That’s how the matches are playing out right now" [8, 6].
Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, highlighted the team’s resilience, stating, "We knew that we were going to suffer, and this is part of our blood, this is part of our DNA, and this brings peace of mind" [9]. He added that the team has grown more experienced dealing with pressure: "The team knew how to remain calm and, of course, we will never give up" [6].
Switzerland’s leading scorer, Johan Manzambi, missed the match due to a knee injury [1, 7]. Despite the loss, Swiss fans showed pride in their team’s performance, with fan Laura K. saying, "In our hearts you won, Switzerland. Ten against 11 with Argentina" [7]. Swiss President Guy Parmelin praised the squad’s effort, calling it "an exceptional campaign and a close-knit team that has thrilled the whole of Switzerland" [7].
Argentina will face England in the semi-finals on July 15 in Atlanta [2, 3, 4, 8, 5, 6].
