​Argentina’s dramatic extra-time triumph over Switzerland to secure a World Cup semi-final showdown with England proved to be as draining off the pitch as it was on it, even for Como’s Nico Paz. The reigning champions have lacked sustained rhythm throughout the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and their quest for a consistent title defense has faced several stumbles along the way.
Even after Breel Embolo’s red card reduced Switzerland to ten men, Argentina still needed extra time before finally advancing 3-1, with Julian Alvarez curling in a superb strike and Lautaro Martinez adding a late clincher to seal the win in the wound-up minutes. The clash, held in Kansas City, Missouri, tested every member of the squad, from the star players to those waiting on the bench.
Nico Paz, a 21-year-old from Como, highlighted the match’s physical and mental toll by sharing details about his own experience. The young forward revealed on social media that his wearable device showed a spike in stress levels while he sat on the bench, underscoring how high-pressure games this far into the tournament can affect even players who aren’t actively on the field at every moment. The monitoring technology worn by all players tracks vital signs as well as performance metrics, providing teams with data on how players cope with the demands of a World Cup match.
Paz has featured twice for Argentina in this tournament, appearing as a substitute in the 3-0 win over Algeria and then starting in the 3-1 victory over Jordan. The 21-year-old’s insights into the team’s overall stress and stamina reflect a broader narrative about how Argentina navigates the pressures of chasing back-to-back World Cup glory.
Looking ahead, Argentina are set to face England in the World Cup semi-final on Wednesday, while defending champions France will meet Spain on Tuesday in another high-stakes matchup. The path remains challenging for Lionel Scaloni’s side as they aim to push for a second consecutive final appearance, with fans and pundits weighing up the team’s ability to maintain form and composure across the demanding knockout phases. The England clash looms as a pivotal test to gauge whether Argentina can sustain their intensity and translate it into a trophy-winning run, especially after advancing through a tense extra-time battle that left players and supporters alike on a heightened emotional edge.