Argentina are through to the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a gruelling 3-1 victory over Switzerland in Kansas City — and their reward is a heavyweight clash with England that carries the weight of decades of rivalry and history.

The win was Argentina's sixth from six at this tournament, yet it was far from comfortable. Julián Álvarez opened the scoring with a header from a Lionel Messi corner in the 10th minute, but Switzerland refused to fold, gradually seizing control in the second half and earning an equaliser through Dan Ndoye.

Embolo red card turns the tie

The Swiss momentum was checked when Breel Embolo received a red card for simulation shortly after levelling. Already without the injured Johan Manzambi, Switzerland were left to battle with their attacking options severely depleted.

Even at ten men, the Swiss held firm and pushed Argentina — who had survived a penalty shootout against Colombia and narrow wins over Cape Verde and Egypt — deep into their own half for long spells. Emiliano Martínez was called into action repeatedly, and manager Lionel Scaloni was forced to introduce Thiago Almada, Nicolás Otamendi, and José Manuel 'Flaco' López in the final thirty minutes.

It was Álvarez who ultimately unlocked the stalemate, firing a thunderous effort into the top-right corner in the 112th minute. Lautaro Martínez added a third in the closing seconds to seal Argentina's place in the last four.

Scaloni acknowledges fortune as well as fight