FIFA World Cup: Alvarez's extra-time strike sends Argentina into semis
Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 in extra time to advance to the 2026 World Cup semi-finals. The match featured a rare 'mistaken identity' VAR ruling that resulted in a red card for Switzerland, followed by decisive goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez.
Why it matters
This match is a key event in the 2026 World Cup, highlighting the impact of VAR technology and the performance of the defending champions.
Defending champions Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 after extra time to book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals on Saturday.Julian Alvarez broke the deadlock in the 112th minute with a superb long-range strike before Lautaro Martinez added a third goal in the final moments of extra time.Argentina will now face England in the semifinals on Wednesday after the Three Lions beat Norway 2-1 earlier in the day.Mac Allister gives Argentina early leadArgentina made a bright start and took the lead in the 10th minute.Lionel Messi delivered a corner from the left, and Alexis Mac Allister found the net to put the defending champions ahead.Messi did not score in the match, ending his nine-game World Cup scoring streak, but he still played a key role in Argentina's victory.Switzerland fight back before red cardSwitzerland refused to give up and equalised in the 67th minute through Dan Ndoye.However, the match changed…
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