Argentina crush Switzerland, advance to World Cup semi-finals

Julian Alvarez produced a moment of brilliance as Argentina defeated 10-man Switzerland 3-1 after extra time on Saturday, booking a blockbuster World Cup semi-final against old rivals England.

Lionel Messi created the opening goal in Kansas City, delivering a corner for Alexis Mac Allister to head Argentina in front after just 10 minutes.

Switzerland refused to surrender and deservedly equalised in the 67th minute when Dan Ndoye finished a clever move involving Ricardo Rodriguez.

But the contest swung sharply five minutes later.

Breel Embolo, already carrying a yellow card, was shown a second booking for simulation after a VAR review, leaving Switzerland to battle the world champions with 10 men.

Argentina piled on the pressure, but Mac Allister missed a clear header while Messi curled an effort narrowly wide as Switzerland forced the match into extra time.

The Swiss defence continued to frustrate Lionel Scaloni’s men until the 112th minute, when Alvarez curled a stunning strike into the top corner.

Lautaro Martinez then added a third goal late on to seal Argentina’s place in the semi-finals.

The victory extends Argentina’s unbeaten World Cup run to 12 matches as they continue their bid to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the trophy.

Messi failed to score but registered his 10th assist across six World Cups. He remains level with France’s Kylian Mbappe at the top of the Golden Boot standings with eight goals.

Argentina will now face England in Atlanta on Wednesday after Thomas Tuchel’s side defeated Norway 2-1.

The semi-final renews one of international football’s fiercest rivalries, shaped by controversial World Cup encounters and decades of political tension.

Argentina defeated England in the famous 1986 quarter-final, remembered for Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” and extraordinary solo goal.

They also eliminated England on penalties in 1998 before the Three Lions gained revenge with a 1-0 victory at the 2002 World Cup.

Now another explosive chapter awaits.