The Argentine national team secured their place in the 2026 World Cup semifinals with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Switzerland in Kansas City late Friday night. While the South Americans celebrated their advancement, the result carried significant implications for Serie A, as Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martínez played a decisive role in eliminating several Italian league players from the competition.
Argentina’s narrow escape against Switzerland
Despite dominating much of the early action, Argentina found themselves locked in a tense battle with the Swiss. Lionel Messi’s corner set the tone early, as Alexis Mac Allister rose highest to put Argentina ahead in the 10th minute. However, the lead was short-lived, as Switzerland equalized through Ndoye in the 68th minute. The turning point came when Breel Embolo was sent off for simulation, attempting to draw a foul on Leandro Paredes. Even with a numerical advantage, Argentina struggled to break down the resilient Swiss defense in regular time.
The deadlock was finally broken in extra time. Julián Álvarez, introduced in the 105th minute, unleashed a spectacular right-footed strike in the 112th minute to put Argentina ahead once more. Lautaro Martínez, who had entered the game just five minutes earlier, sealed the victory with a clinical counterattack finish in the 121st minute, capping off a 3-1 scoreline.
A heated confrontation overshadows the victory
The match will also be remembered for a confrontational exchange between Messi and the Portuguese referee, Artur Pinheiro. After a rough tackle in the opening half, the Inter Miami forward challenged the official’s tone, demanding, ‘Speak to me properly—don’t disrespect me.’ Despite the tension, Messi went on to provide the assist for Argentina’s first goal, further cementing his legacy as the all-time leading assist provider in World Cup history.
Argentina now prepares to face England in the semifinals on July 15 in Atlanta, a rematch four decades in the making since the infamous ‘Hand of God’ incident.