Julian Alvarez’s 112th-Minute Stunner Fires Argentina Past Switzerland 3-1 and Into World Cup Semifinals

Julian Alvarez produced a moment of brilliance deep into extra time as defending champions Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 to secure a place in the World Cup semifinals after a gripping quarterfinal clash on Saturday night.

With the contest seemingly headed toward penalties, Alvarez unleashed a stunning long-range strike in the 112th minute , giving Argentina the breakthrough they desperately needed. Lautaro Martinez added another goal moments before the final whistle, putting the result beyond doubt and setting up a semifinal meeting with England in Atlanta.

Argentina had taken the lead earlier through Alexis Mac Allister , who headed home from a corner delivered by Lionel Messi . However, the Swiss responded strongly after the break and drew level in the 67th minute when Dan Ndoye found the net, silencing the large Argentine contingent in the crowd.

The match then became increasingly dramatic. Switzerland were reduced to 10 men after a VAR review determined that an earlier yellow card had been shown to the wrong player. The decision resulted in Breel Embolo , who had already been booked, receiving a second caution and being sent off, leaving the Swiss to defend with a numerical disadvantage for the remainder of the contest.

Despite creating several chances, Argentina struggled to break through until Alvarez stepped up with his decisive effort from distance. As Switzerland pushed forward in search of another equaliser, Martinez struck on the counterattack in the dying seconds to complete the victory.

Although Messi’s remarkable nine-game World Cup scoring streak came to an end, the Argentine captain once again played a key creative role and kept alive his dream of lifting a second World Cup title .

Argentina will now face England , who earlier defeated Norway 2-1 , in what promises to be one of the most anticipated semifinal encounters of the tournament.