Argentina survives to reach the World Cup semifinals

Defending champions Argentina reached the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, edging out a reduced Swiss side 3-1 after extra time (1-1 after regular time) on Saturday in Kansas City, USA, setting up a Wednesday clash with England in Atlanta.

Switzerland finished the match with ten players after forward Breel Embolo was sent off by Portuguese referee João Pinheiro following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review. He received a second yellow card for simulation, after having been booked in the 44th minute (72nd minute of the match).

Argentina, who have reached the semifinals in three of their last four appearances, maintained their unbeaten record against Switzerland, having not lost in eight meetings (four wins and four draws).

Switzerland equalized through Nuno Tavares, who capitalized on their superiority. After exchanging passes with Ricardo Rodriguez, the Nottingham Forest left-back, an English player, cut inside from the left flank into the Argentine penalty area and fired a low right-footed shot past goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez (67th minute).

However, the tide quickly turned in Argentina’s favor after referee Pinheiro sent off Swiss forward Embolo following a VAR review. He was shown a second yellow card for simulation, following an earlier booking in the 44th minute (72nd minute), and left the pitch in disbelief, breaking down in tears.

Pinheiro had initially awarded a free-kick to Embolo, then issued a yellow card to Leandro Paredes, which was later rescinded after reviewing the incident.

Alvarez restored Argentina’s lead in the second half of extra time, receiving the ball outside the penalty area on the left and curling a brilliant right-footed shot into the top right corner (112th minute).

From a counterattack, substitute Martinez sealed the victory in the first minute of stoppage time (120+1).