Lionel Messi praised Argentina’s resilience after the defending champions fought past a determined Switzerland side 3-1 after extra time to reach the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals.
Although Messi did not score, he inspired his teammates throughout the contest as Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez struck in extra time after Switzerland, reduced to 10 men, pushed Argentina all the way. “It was a very hard-fought win. We knew it would be intense, and taking this step is very important,” Messi said after the match. Argentina have now scored in 15 consecutive FIFA World Cup matches, one of the longest scoring streaks in tournament history.
Lionel Scaloni’s men will next face England in Atlanta for a place in the World Cup final.