World Cup 2026 Argentina Beat Switzerland 3-1 in Extra Time

ARGENTINA · WORLD CUP

Argentina flirted with danger once more before pulling clear in extra time, seeing off a stubborn Switzerland 3-1 in Kansas City to move within one win of another World Cup final.

World Cup 2026 Argentina survive again to reach the last four

The reigning champions are into the semi-finals, but they had to work for it once more. Argentina beat Switzerland 3-1 after extra time in Kansas City.

According to FIFA’s match centre, the tie was level at 1-1 after ninety minutes. Two late goals in extra time finally settled it.

Alexis Mac Allister headed Argentina in front early from a Lionel Messi corner. Dan Ndoye levelled for Switzerland after the break.

Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez then struck in the additional period. The scoreline flattered Argentina after a taxing night.

It is a third straight knockout tie in which the holders have been made to sweat. They keep finding a way through regardless.

Kansas City had expected a routine passage for the favourites. It got another test of the champions’ nerve.

Messi the provider as Mac Allister strikes

Argentina made the ideal start in Kansas City. Mac Allister rose to head home a Messi corner inside the first ten minutes.

The early lead suited the champions, who looked to control the game. Switzerland, though, refused to fold.

Dan Ndoye punished a lapse just after the hour to draw the Swiss level. Murat Yakin’s side had earned their foothold.

For a spell it looked as though another shock might be brewing. Argentina laboured to break down a disciplined Swiss block.

Messi kept probing for the opening. His delivery from set pieces remained Argentina’s most reliable weapon.

Switzerland grew in confidence after equalising. They sensed a famous result was within reach.

Extra time settles a tense tie

With penalties looming, Argentina found their breakthrough. Alvarez struck in the 112th minute to restore their lead.

Lautaro Martinez added a third in the first minute of stoppage time in extra time. It gave the scoreline a gloss the contest had lacked.

By The Rio Times’ count, it was the second time in four knockout ties Argentina have needed extra time. Cape Verde had also taken them the distance.

A Switzerland red card in the closing stages had eased Argentina’s path. The champions made their numerical advantage count.

The Swiss will feel they deserved more from their night. They matched Argentina for long spells before tiring.

Champions living on the edge

This has become the pattern of Argentina’s tournament. They trailed Egypt, were pushed by Cape Verde, and now needed extra time again.

For all the alarms, the holders keep advancing. That knack is often the mark of a side built to go deep.

Messi, at the heart of it, continues to shape the biggest moments. His eight goals still lead the Golden Boot race.

Lionel Scaloni will want a cleaner performance in the last four. Argentina have ridden their luck more than once.

Even so, the destination is what matters. Argentina are into the semi-finals for a second successive World Cup.

That consistency is its own achievement in a knockout tournament. Few sides sustain it across two World Cups.

World Cup 2026 Argentina turn to England

A semi-final against England now awaits in Atlanta. It renews one of the World Cup’s most storied rivalries.

The sides have history stretching back to 1986 and beyond. Diego Maradona’s two goals that year remain part of football folklore.

England reached the last four by beating Norway after extra time. Jude Bellingham’s brace carried the Three Lions through.

By The Rio Times’ reckoning, it is a heavyweight tie befitting the stage. Two former champions meet with a final place at stake.

For Argentina, the prize is a shot at back-to-back titles. First they must find their best against England.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the score in Argentina vs Switzerland?

Argentina won 3-1 after extra time in Kansas City. Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez scored.

Did Lionel Messi score against Switzerland?

No, but he set up the opening goal with a corner. His eight goals still lead the Golden Boot race.

Why did the match go to extra time?

It was 1-1 after ninety minutes. Dan Ndoye had cancelled out Argentina’s early lead.

Who do Argentina play in the semi-finals?

They face England in Atlanta. It is a repeat of a storied World Cup rivalry.

How many times have Argentina needed extra time?

Twice in four knockout ties. Cape Verde also took them to extra time in the round of 32.