First half action sees Argentina take the lead
Argentina secured a 1-0 lead over Switzerland in their World Cup 2026 quarter-final match, with Alexis Mac Allister scoring the only goal in the 10th minute. The goal came from a corner kick delivered by Lionel Messi, which Mac Allister headed into the net. This early goal was a significant moment in a first half that saw Argentina largely control the game, despite Switzerland holding more possession.
Following the goal, Argentina’s offensive efforts decreased, with their next shot not coming until the 50th minute. The South American champions appeared content to allow Switzerland to maintain possession, focusing instead on counter-attacking opportunities. This strategy, while maintaining their lead, carried the risk of Switzerland finding an equalizer.
Switzerland, despite having an advantage in possession and touches in the opposition box, struggled to convert these into clear scoring chances. Their lone shot on target in the first half was a strike from Sow directly at Argentina’s goalkeeper, Emiliano Martínez. The Swiss team’s manager, Murat Yakin, may need to consider tactical adjustments or substitutions to inject more energy into their attack if they hope to advance to the semi-finals.
The match also saw a yellow card issued to Switzerland’s Embolo in the 44th minute after a challenge on Paredes at midfield. Switzerland was also without Johan Manzambi, who was sidelined due to a knee injury sustained in training before a previous match against Algeria, impacting their attacking options.
Switzerland’s efforts and controversies surrounding the tournament
Despite conceding early, Switzerland demonstrated moments of attacking intent. Dan Ndoye made a notable run, threading a pass to Breel Embolo, which required a decisive intervention from Argentina’s goalkeeper, Emiliano Martínez, who came off his line to tackle the ball away. Embolo appealed for a penalty, but no call was made.
The World Cup has been marked by several controversies off the pitch. One notable incident involved US striker Folarin Balogun’s red card, which was initially suspended by FIFA under an obscure rule, Article 27. This decision, reportedly influenced by a call from President Donald Trump to FIFA boss Gianni Infantino, drew criticism from the global football community. The USA subsequently lost their match against Belgium 4-1.
Another controversy involved Iran’s participation, as the team faced visa issues for their delegation members and travel bans for many fans hoping to attend games in the United States. Additionally, the officiating in Argentina’s match against Egypt sparked calls for an investigation from Egypt’s football federation, following a dramatic comeback by Argentina in the final 10 minutes of that game.
The winner of the quarter-final between Argentina and Switzerland is set to face England in the semi-final on Wednesday. England secured their spot by defeating Norway 2-1 in extra time, with Jude Bellingham scoring two goals. The other semi-final will feature Spain against France, scheduled for Tuesday in Dallas.
The match in Kansas City unfolded with a predominantly Argentinian crowd, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Argentina’s ability to maintain their lead throughout the first half, despite Switzerland’s possession, highlights their strategic approach in this crucial quarter-final fixture.
Argentina’s early goal by Alexis Mac Allister in the 10th minute gave them a crucial lead in the World Cup quarter-final.
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Source: theguardian.com
As NewsGB's Senior Football Correspondent, Jack Ferndale reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He covered north-east football for a regional daily. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from the University of Sunderland and completed an NCTJ diploma. Jack lives in Sunderland, where he watches lower-league football home and away. “The story is in the squad, not just the starting eleven.”
