Daijiworld Media Network - Kansas City

Kansas City, Jul 12: Argentina scored twice in extra time to defeat Switzerland 3-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals, booking a blockbuster semi-final clash against England.

Goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez in the additional period sealed the victory after the match had ended 1-1 at the conclusion of regulation time.

The win also extended Argentina's remarkable scoring streak to 15 consecutive FIFA World Cup matches, one of the longest such runs in the tournament's history.

Lionel Scaloni's side made a bright start and took the lead in the 10th minute. Lionel Messi delivered a corner from the left, which Alexis Mac Allister headed into the net to put Argentina ahead.

The remainder of the first half was closely contested, with both teams battling intensely in midfield and creating few clear-cut chances, allowing Argentina to carry a narrow advantage into the break.

Switzerland came out strongly after halftime and forced Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez into a pair of important saves before finally drawing level. Dan Ndoye finished off a neat passing move with a curling effort from inside the box to make it 1-1.

The momentum shifted in the 72nd minute when Swiss forward Breel Embolo was sent off after receiving a second yellow card. The dismissal followed a VAR review, with the referee ruling that Embolo had simulated a foul in midfield.

With a numerical advantage, Argentina dominated possession and nearly regained the lead in normal time, but Gregor Kobel produced an excellent save to deny Lisandro Martinez's spectacular bicycle kick.

The breakthrough finally came in extra time when Julian Alvarez cut inside from the left and curled a powerful strike into the top corner to restore Argentina's lead.

Switzerland's hopes of a comeback ended soon afterwards as Lautaro Martinez finished from close range after Argentina launched a swift counter-attack, converting a rebound to make it 3-1.

Argentina will now face England in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals at Atlanta Stadium on Thursday.