Argentina secured their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Switzerland in a late-night thriller at Kansas City. The win, achieved in extra time, carried special significance for Serie A fans, as Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martínez played a pivotal role in eliminating several Italian league players from the tournament.
The match was far from straightforward. Mac Allister opened the scoring with a header from a Messi corner in the 10th minute, but Switzerland quickly responded through Ndoye in the 68th. Tensions escalated when Embolo was sent off for simulation, attempting to get Paredes penalized. Despite the numerical advantage, Argentina struggled to break through in regulation time.
Extra time proved decisive. Julián Álvarez broke the deadlock in the 112th minute with a stunning right-footed volley. Lautaro Martínez, who had entered the game with just five minutes remaining in regulation, sealed the victory in the 121st with a well-executed counterattack, locking in the final score at 3-1.
The game’s narrative, however, was soon overshadowed by a heated confrontation between Lionel Messi and the Portuguese referee, Pinheiro. Frustrated by a heavy challenge in the first half, Messi confronted the official, asserting, “Talk to me properly—don’t disrespect me.” Despite the tension, Messi contributed significantly to the victory, delivering the assist for Argentina’s first goal and setting a new record as the all-time top assist provider in World Cup history.
Argentina will now face England in the semifinals on July 15 in Atlanta—a rematch four decades after the infamous “Hand of God” incident.
