World Cup: Alvarez and Lautaro seal Argentina’s extra-time win over Switzerland

Argentina booked their place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals after a thrilling 3-1 extra-time victory over Switzerland in Kansas City.

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Argentina struck first in the 10th minute when Alexis Mac Allister converted Lionel Messi’s clever assist, rewarding their bright opening and sustained attacking pressure.

The South American giants dominated the early stages, taking the lead in the 10th minute through Alexis Mac Allister, who converted a clever assist from Lionel Messi. Messi was instrumental in orchestrating Argentina's attacks throughout the first half, as Switzerland struggled to contain their opponents and create meaningful chances.

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Switzerland returned purposefully after half-time and levelled in the 67th minute through Dan Ndoye, who calmly finished Ricardo Rodriguez’s precise pass.

Switzerland's task became significantly harder when Breel Embolo received a yellow card just before halftime. Despite this, they emerged with renewed purpose after the break and found an equalizer in the 67th minute via Dan Ndoye, who calmly finished a precise pass from Ricardo Rodriguez. However, Switzerland's momentum was short-lived as Embolo was sent off for a second yellow card five minutes later, reducing his team to 10 men for the remainder of the match.

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Argentina regained the lead in the 112th minute when Julian Alvarez finished clinically after excellent work from Junior Lopez to make it 2-1.

Argentina responded by bringing on fresh attacking options, including Lautaro Martinez. Neither side could find a breakthrough in normal time, forcing the match into an additional 30 minutes. In extra time, Julian Alvarez clinically finished a chance in the 112th minute to put Argentina ahead, and Lautaro Martinez sealed the victory late on, confirming Argentina's deserved progression to the next round.

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Lautaro Martinez wrapped up victory late in the second half of extra time, scoring Argentina’s third goal to confirm a deserved 3-1 triumph.