Argentina advanced to the World Cup semifinals with a 3-1 victory over Switzerland in a tense quarterfinal match Saturday night in Kansas City.
Argentina, the defending champion, took an early lead on a goal by midfielder Alexis Mac Allister in the 10th minute. The team controlled much of the first half but struggled to extend its advantage against Switzerland's disciplined defensive setup.
Switzerland, which reached the quarterfinals for the first time since 1954, equalized in the 67th minute when Dan Ndoye cut through Argentina's defense to make it 1-1.
The turning point came shortly after when Switzerland's Breel Embolo was ejected after receiving a second yellow card following a video review. Argentina capitalized on the man advantage in extra time, with Julian Alvarez scoring in the 112th minute to give his team a 2-1 lead. Argentina added another goal to seal the 3-1 final.
Lionel Messi, Argentina's star player, did not score in the match, ending a nine-game scoring streak dating to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Argentina will face England in the semifinals on Wednesday in Atlanta. Spain and France will meet Tuesday in Arlington in the other semifinal matchup.
