Messi and Argentina survive another close call to reach the World Cup semifinals
Argentina Edge Past Switzerland to Reach World Cup Semifinals
Messi and Argentina survive another close - KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Argentina found themselves once again teetering on the edge of elimination during this year's FIFA World Cup, though this time fortune smiled upon the defending champions. The Albiceleste's journey through the tournament has been marked by narrow escapes, beginning with their extra-time victory over Cape Verde, who emerged as the tournament's surprise package. Their resilience was further tested in the Round of 16 when they staged a remarkable recovery from two goals down to defeat Egypt.
On Saturday evening, the Argentine squad faced Switzerland in what proved to be another nail-biting encounter. For the majority of the second half and into extra time, the teams remained deadlocked at 1-1. Switzerland refused to capitulate despite being reduced to ten men, making what appeared to be an inevitable defeat seem within reach for the South Americans.
After thirty grueling minutes of additional play, Argentina finally broke through, securing a 3-1 victory that sent them through to the semifinals. Their next challenge awaits on Wednesday in Atlanta, where they will meet England, who also required extra time to overcome Norway in their quarterfinal clash.
A Stadium Full of Messi Devotion
The atmosphere inside Arrowhead Stadium was electric on a warm, humid Missouri evening. Of the 69,045 spectators who filled the stands, thousands proudly displayed the jersey of football's most iconic figure: Lionel Messi. The 39-year-old Argentine forward continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his extraordinary longevity at the sport's highest level.
While Messi provided an assist early in the match, this game marked the first time in ten consecutive World Cup appearances that he failed to find the back of the net. His remarkable scoring streak of nine straight World Cup matches had come to an end, though his influence remained evident throughout the contest.
It was Julián Alvarez who ultimately delivered the decisive blow for Argentina. In the 112th minute, the forward unleashed a powerful right-footed strike that sailed into the far upper corner of the Swiss goal. The momentum shifted decisively in Argentina's favor, and Lautaro Martínez added further insurance in the 121st minute with another clinical finish to seal the victory.
The Turning Point: Embolo's Red Card
Argentina had taken an early lead in the tenth minute when midfielder Alexis Mac Allister directed a Messi corner kick into the net. This goal represented Messi's tenth career World Cup assist, each one delivered to a different teammate. However, despite their advantage, Argentina struggled to extend their lead through both halves of regular time.
Switzerland, organized and determined, exploited gaps in the Argentine defense with increasing frequency. Forward Dan Ndoye eventually equalized for the Swiss, slipping a clever shot beneath the outstretched leg of Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez to level the score at 1-1.
The momentum shifted dramatically moments later when Swiss forward Breel Embolo received a second yellow card following a video review. The incident occurred after Embolo was judged to have simulated a fall, and since he had already received a caution late in the first half for a late challenge on Leandro Paredes, the second booking resulted in a red card. Embolo, visibly emotional with tears streaming down his face, was guided off the pitch by his teammates, his expression one of disbelief and disappointment.
The controversial decision immediately ignited discussion among pundits and supporters alike. Many questioned whether the punishment fit the offense, noting that theatrical falls occur frequently during matches. Others argued that Embolo's actions warranted the sending-off, especially given his earlier caution.
Regardless of the debate surrounding the incident, Argentina now advances to face England in the semifinals. For Messi, this achievement provides two additional opportunities to extend his record for most career World Cup goals, currently standing at 21. Whether through the semifinal against England or potentially the final or third-place playoff, the Argentine legend continues to chase football immortality on the world's biggest stage.