Argentina survive Swiss resistance

Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals after overcoming stubborn 10-man Switzerland 3-1 following extra time in a dramatic quarter-final that tested both their patience and resilience.

The reigning world champions appeared on course for a comfortable evening when Alexis Mac Allister gave them the lead after just 10 minutes, finishing a flowing attacking move that reflected Argentina's bright start.

Switzerland, however, refused to be overwhelmed.

Gradually growing into the contest, the Swiss defended with discipline before finding their reward in the 67th minute when Dan Ndoye finished confidently to level the score, silencing the large Argentine support inside the stadium.

Only minutes later, the match took another dramatic turn.

Swiss striker BreelEmbolo received his second yellow card for simulation and was sent off, forcing Switzerland to play the remainder of the match with ten men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, the Europeans continued to frustrate Argentina with determined defending and intelligent organisation.

Normal time ended 1-1, sending the final quarter-final into extra time. With penalties looming, Argentina's superior attacking depth finally made the difference.

In the 112th minute, Julián Álvarez collected possession on the left, cut inside and curled a magnificent finish beyond the goalkeeper to restore Argentina's advantage. The goal released the tension that had built throughout the contest and finally broke Swiss resistance.

Switzerland threw everything forward in search of another equaliser, but that ambition left spaces at the back.

Deep into stoppage time of extra time, LautaroMartínez completed the victory with a composed finish after a swift counter-attack, sealing a 3-1 triumph and confirming Argentina's place in the last four.

Lionel Messi did not find the scoresheet but remained the creative heartbeat of Argentina, repeatedly drawing defenders and creating space for his teammates. Coach Lionel Scaloni praised his side's composure after the match, describing the victory as further proof that Argentina have learned how to thrive under pressure in knockout football.

For Switzerland, the defeat was heartbreaking but honourable. Even after being reduced to ten men, they pushed one of the tournament favourites to extra time and demonstrated once again why they are among Europe's most difficult knockout opponents.

Argentina now move on to a mouth-watering semi-final against England, where the experience of Messi will meet the youthful brilliance of Jude Bellingham in one of the most anticipated clashes of the tournament.