Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 in the World Cup, meaning they will face England in the semi-final and for the first time in Lionel Messi’s career.
As always Messi was instrumental in the victory, although VAR also played a prominent role once again. Still, it was Julian Alvarez who was the match winner with a wonder strike in the second-half of extra time.
Switzerland started the better of the two sides. However, the 69,000-strong crowd (ignoring visible empty seats), were almost exclusively supporting the South Americans, and they were soon lifted by Argentina’s captain. Messi worked his magic to create an opportunity for a team-mate, resulting in a corner. Moments later Alexis Mac Allister rose highest to head from the corner, which was, of course, delivered by Messi.
Despite taking the lead within the opening ten minutes, Lionel Scaloni’s side flattered to deceive from that point onwards. The Swiss had the lion’s share of possession and looked the more threatening team going forward. There were plenty of signs to offer encouragement to Thomas Tuchel and England – if they were not too busy celebrating their own victory in Miami to watch their upcoming opponents.
Eventually the pockets of Swiss fans that were in attendance finally made themselves known. Breel Embolo, Djibril Sow and Granit Xhaka had all been denied by Emi Martinez, before Dan Ndoye wrapped the ball into the bottom corner to level. It was an equaliser that was more than deserved, with just over 20 minutes remaining to play.
As always Messi was instrumental in the victory, although VAR also played a prominent role once again. Still, it was Julian Alvarez who was the match winner with a wonder strike in the second-half of extra time.
Switzerland started the better of the two sides. However, the 69,000-strong crowd (ignoring visible empty seats), were almost exclusively supporting the South Americans, and they were soon lifted by Argentina’s captain. Messi worked his magic to create an opportunity for a team-mate, resulting in a corner. Moments later Alexis Mac Allister rose highest to head from the corner, which was, of course, delivered by Messi.
Despite taking the lead within the opening ten minutes, Lionel Scaloni’s side flattered to deceive from that point onwards. The Swiss had the lion’s share of possession and looked the more threatening team going forward. There were plenty of signs to offer encouragement to Thomas Tuchel and England – if they were not too busy celebrating their own victory in Miami to watch their upcoming opponents.
Eventually the pockets of Swiss fans that were in attendance finally made themselves known. Breel Embolo, Djibril Sow and Granit Xhaka had all been denied by Emi Martinez, before Dan Ndoye wrapped the ball into the bottom corner to level. It was an equaliser that was more than deserved, with just over 20 minutes remaining to play.
2 months ago
