Argentina secured their place in the World Cup 2026 semifinals with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Switzerland after extra time in the early hours of Saturday morning in Kansas City. The triumph carried significant weight for Serie A fans, as Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martínez’s decisive contributions eliminated several Italian-based players from the tournament.

The match proved physically and tactically demanding for Argentina. Alejandro Mac Allister headed in Lionel Messi’s corner kick in the 10th minute, but Sweden-born Swiss forward Ndoye equalized in the 68th minute, capitalizing on defensive hesitation. The dismissal of Swiss striker Embolo—sanctioned for simulation after attempting to get teammate Paredes penalized—shifted momentum in Argentina’s favor, though they struggled to break down the Swiss defense during regulation.

Julian Alvarez broke the deadlock in the 112th minute with a spectacular right-footed strike, having entered the game late in the second half. Lautaro Martínez, who came on in the 85th minute, sealed the victory in the 121st minute with a clinical counterattack finish, capping off a dominant display that sent the scoreboard to 3-1.

The night also featured a heated exchange between Messi and Portuguese referee Pinheiro. After a rough tackle in the first half left Messi fuming, the Inter Miami star confronted the official: “Speak to me properly—don’t disrespect me.” Messi, however, maintained his composure and provided the assist for Argentina’s opener, further cementing his status as the all-time leading assist provider in World Cup history.

Argentina will face England in the semifinals on July 15 in Atlanta, a rematch 40 years in the making after the infamous “Hand of God” incident.