Messi Breaks World Cup Assist Record as Argentina Beat Switzerland in Extra Time to Set Up Blockbuster England Semi-Final

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Argentina are through to the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Switzerland 3-1 in an entertaining extra-time quarter-final, with captain Lionel Messi once again proving decisive by breaking the World Cup assist record.

The defending champions looked in control early after Messi delivered a superb cross that Alexis Mac Allister headed into the net, giving Argentina the perfect start. The assist marked Messi’s 10th in FIFA World Cup history, extending his record as the tournament’s leading assist provider.

Switzerland responded with determination and found an equaliser before half-time, ensuring the teams entered the break level in a fiercely contested encounter.

The game’s defining moment came in the second half when Swiss forward Breel Embolo was shown a controversial red card for simulation, reducing Switzerland to 10 men and handing Argentina a significant advantage.

Despite dominating possession after the dismissal, Argentina had to wait until extra time to break the deadlock.

Julián Álvarez finally restored Argentina’s lead with a brilliant finish before Lautaro Martínez sealed the victory on the counterattack, sprinting clear to score Argentina’s third goal and confirm a 3-1 triumph.

Álvarez’s outstanding display earned him the Man of the Match award after his relentless work rate and match-winning goal.

Argentina to Face England in Huge Semi-Final

The victory sends Argentina into a mouthwatering FIFA World Cup semi-final against England on Wednesday in Atlanta.

The clash is expected to capture global attention as it will reportedly be Lionel Messi’s first senior international meeting against England, adding another fascinating chapter to one of football’s greatest rivalries.

England secured their own place in the last four after defeating Norway 2-1 in extra time, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice to inspire the Three Lions.

Historic Semi-Final Line-Up

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has also produced a historic final four.

For the first time in World Cup history, the tournament’s top four FIFA-ranked nations—Argentina, England, France and Spain—have all progressed to the semi-finals, creating one of the strongest final-four line-ups ever seen at the competition.

Football analysts have already begun debating the Argentina-England showdown.

Former England midfielder Joe Cole believes England’s youthful energy and high-intensity style could test the 39-year-old Messi, while many supporters have recalled the nations’ famous 1986 World Cup quarter-final, when Diego Maradona inspired Argentina to victory with the iconic “Hand of God” goal and his unforgettable “Goal of the Century.”

Messi, who is chasing a second FIFA World Cup title, has insisted Argentina will continue to “fight until the end” as they pursue another place in football history.

Awaiting the winner in the final on July 19 will be either France or Spain, promising the possibility of another classic encounter if Argentina can overcome England.

With Messi’s brilliance, England’s emerging stars and a place in the World Cup final at stake, Wednesday’s semi-final in Atlanta is already shaping up to be one of the tournament’s most anticipated matches.