Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 13th July 2026, 4:27 PM
Argentina etched their name into FIFA World Cup history by setting a record that had remained untouched throughout the tournament’s 96-year existence. The reigning world champions defeated Switzerland 3-1 after extra time in the quarter-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing a place in the semi-finals while becoming the first team ever to score at least two goals in 12 consecutive World Cup matches.
The dramatic contest in Kansas City produced both excitement and history. Switzerland, reduced to ten men during extra time, fought resolutely before eventually succumbing to the relentless attacking quality of the South American giants. Julián Álvarez produced a superb curling strike to restore Argentina’s advantage before Lautaro Martínez sealed the victory with a clinical finish, ending any hopes of a Swiss comeback.
Argentina made an ideal start when Alexis Mac Allister headed home from Lionel Messi’s pinpoint corner in the 10th minute. The early breakthrough reflected the holders’ attacking intent, although Switzerland gradually grew into the contest and enjoyed long spells of possession during the remainder of the first half.
Despite failing to add to his remarkable goal tally, Messi remained highly influential throughout the match. The captain registered an assist for the opening goal and continued to orchestrate Argentina’s attacking play with his vision and precise distribution. Switzerland’s persistence was eventually rewarded in the 67th minute when Dan Ndoye found the equaliser, ensuring a tense finish to normal time.
With neither side able to produce a decisive goal inside 90 minutes, the tie moved into extra time. Argentina quickly regained control through Álvarez, whose outstanding curling effort left the Swiss goalkeeper with little chance. Martínez then added a third goal to put the result beyond doubt and send the defending champions into the last four.
The victory carried significance beyond qualification for the semi-finals. By scoring three times against Switzerland, Argentina extended their remarkable sequence to 12 consecutive World Cup matches with at least two goals. That achievement establishes a new tournament record, surpassing Uruguay’s previous mark of 11 successive World Cup matches with two or more goals, set between the 1930 and 1954 editions.
The latest milestone underlines the extraordinary consistency of Argentina’s attack over multiple World Cup campaigns. Blending experienced leaders such as Messi with younger stars including Álvarez and Mac Allister, the holders have maintained an impressive balance of creativity, composure and clinical finishing on football’s biggest stage.
Having secured another memorable victory and rewritten a long-standing chapter of World Cup history, Argentina will now turn their attention to the semi-final, where they are scheduled to face England. The reigning champions will be aiming not only to reach another World Cup final but also to extend their record-breaking scoring run.
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