​Argentina needed a late winner once more on Saturday night, and Julián Álvarez delivered a stunning golazo. Álvarez unleashed an incredible strike from outside the penalty area in the 112th minute, lifting Argentina to a 3-1 extra-time victory over a Swiss side playing with ten men. The win sent the defending champions into the semifinals to face England on Wednesday, marking their second extra-time triumph in three knockout rounds at this World Cup.
The goal seemed to materialize from nowhere, catching Switzerland goalkeeper Gregor Kobel off guard at the far post. Álvarez’s moment arrived after Argentina had spent the final 20 minutes of regular time, plus all of extra time, with a numerical advantage following Breel Embolo’s controversial red card for simulation. Nevertheless, Switzerland’s defense had been utterly resolute, repeatedly denying Argentina as the South American side tried to fashion scoring chances inside the penalty area.
Of course, a 10-man defense in a compact low block can only do so much. Few would have expected Álvarez to unleash from that position, yet he did, changing the tenor of the match in an instant. Once the strike found the net, Switzerland had to abandon hopes of clinching the game on penalties and instead chase a late equalizer.
That opening immediately gave way to a fast counter, and Lautaro Martínez converted it to seal the result in the 121st minute, making it 3-1 for Argentina. The moment was not just a goal but a release of tension for the team and its supporters. Martínez and Lionel Messi, in particular, wore relieved expressions as they celebrated, underscoring the significance of the moment for Argentina as they advanced to the semifinals.
For Argentina, the win underscored their resilience in a tournament that has demanded late drama and decisive twists. Álvarez’s strike, coming in the 112th minute, epitomized the team’s ability to turn pressure into moments of decisive quality, even when the odds were stacked against them due to a numerical disadvantage and a stubborn Swiss defensive display. The victory extended Argentina’s unbeaten run in extra time this World Cup and reinforced their status as one of the competition’s most dangerous sides when the match reaches the period beyond the 90 minutes.
Looking ahead, Argentina will prepare to take on England in the semifinals, a heavyweight clash that promises another grinding, high-stakes test. The match will pit a resilient Argentine side, buoyed by Álvarez’s unforgettable strike and the momentum of their late-win mentality, against an England team eager to prove its own championship credentials. The win over Switzerland will be remembered not only for the decisive goal but also for the display of grit and poise under pressure that has defined Argentina’s campaign, especially in this knockout phase.