Julián Álvarez broke Switzerland’s resistance in the 112th minute and set Argentina on the way to a 3-1 extra-time win, sending the defending champions into the World Cup semi-finals against England. The breakthrough came after Switzerland had fought on with 10 men following Breel Embolo’s VAR-assisted dismissal.
Mac Allister gives Argentina an early lift
Alexis Mac Allister put Argentina ahead after 10 minutes, rewarding a fast start that gave them control of the first half. They carried that 1-0 advantage to the interval, but Switzerland refused to allow territorial dominance to settle the contest.
Argentina had 59% possession, outshot Switzerland 22 to 11 and won corners 8-2. Their 603 accurate passes to Switzerland’s 399 reflected sustained pressure, yet the Swiss remained close enough to turn the match.
Ndoye revives Switzerland before Embolo sees red
Dan Ndoye equalised in the 67th minute, finishing a Swiss response that had grown after the break and forcing the quarter-final into a new phase. Argentina had the greater volume of attempts, but Switzerland registered five shots on target to Argentina’s seven and found the goal that mattered.
