KATHMANDU: Argentina secured a place in the FIFA World Cup semifinals after overcoming Switzerland 3-1 in extra time in a dramatic quarterfinal clash at Kansas City Stadium in Missouri.
The defending champions Argentina took control early when Alexis Mac Allister opened the scoring in the 10th minute, giving his side a fast start. Switzerland responded strongly and found the equalizer in the 67th minute through Dan Ndoye, forcing the match into extra time after the teams remained level at 1-1 following 90 minutes.
Switzerland’s hopes suffered a major setback in the 72nd minute when forward Breel Embolo was shown a red card, leaving his team with 10 players and allowing Argentina to dominate the closing stages.
Argentina made their numerical advantage count in extra time, with Julián Alvarez restoring the lead in the 112th minute before Lautaro Martínez sealed the victory with a late strike in the 120th minute.
The win keeps Argentina’s World Cup campaign alive as they advance to the semifinals, while Switzerland bow out after a spirited performance against one of the tournament favourites.
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