Julián Álvarez’s Extra-Time Strike Sends Argentina Past Switzerland in World Cup Quarterfinals
Argentina once again needed extra time to advance in the World Cup. Julián Álvarez stepped up with a stunning goal from outside the penalty area in the 112th minute, breaking the deadlock and putting Argentina ahead 2-1 against a resilient Switzerland side reduced to 10 men.
The match ended 3-1 in favor of Argentina, who will now face England in the semifinals on Wednesday. This marks Argentina’s second victory in extra time during the knockout stages of this tournament, highlighting their persistence under pressure.
A Sudden Strike That Changed Everything
Álvarez’s goal came after Switzerland’s defense held firm for most of the match, especially during the final 20 minutes of regulation and throughout extra time when they played with one fewer player due to Breel Embolo’s controversial red card for simulation.
The strike caught goalkeeper Gregor Kobel off guard as Álvarez fired the ball into the far post from distance. Once the goal went in, Switzerland had no choice but to push forward aggressively to chase an equalizer, leaving gaps at the back.
Seizing the opportunity, Lautaro Martínez scored in the 121st minute on a swift counterattack, sealing the win for Argentina. The joy was evident on the faces of Martínez and Lionel Messi as the final whistle blew.
The Red Card That Shifted Momentum
Switzerland’s Breel Embolo received a second yellow card for diving after a disputed incident near the sideline. He appeared to fall following a challenge by Argentina’s Leandro Paredes. Although Paredes was initially booked, VAR reviewed the play and confirmed that Embolo went down without contact, leading to his dismissal.
This moment resembled a similar situation in the United States’ opening World Cup game, where a dive resulted in a yellow card after VAR intervention. The referee’s initial booking of Paredes allowed VAR to examine the dive, ultimately changing the course of the game.
Switzerland’s Fight Despite Disadvantage
Before the sending-off, Switzerland managed to level the score with a header from Dan Ndoye just five minutes earlier. Their attack gained momentum in the second half, applying constant pressure on Argentina’s defense after a slow start.
Argentina’s Pattern of Late Drama
Argentina has become accustomed to needing late goals to secure victories in this tournament. Against Cape Verde and Egypt, they came from behind or pushed matches into extra time. This quarterfinal continued that trend.
Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring early, heading in a corner from Messi at the 10-minute mark. Switzerland looked unlikely to threaten after that, especially missing their key attacker Johan Manzambi due to injury.
Still, Argentina struggled to keep the lead, allowing Switzerland to equalize twice in previous rounds. This time, it took another star in Álvarez to break through the Swiss defense. The Atlético Madrid striker netted his first World Cup goal in just his third start, proving decisive when it mattered most.
