It was not an easy fight. After being level in normal time, Argentina secured the win in extra time to reach the semifinals of the 2026 World Cup. After the hard-fought victory, captain Lionel Messi paid tribute to his teammates in an emotional message. Having sealed a place in the last four by beating Switzerland 3-1, Messi wrote on Instagram: “Once again we had to suffer, but this team never loses faith. We’re among the best four in the world again! Let’s keep going!”
Switzerland put up strong resistance in the quarterfinal, but Argentina took control in extra time to secure the win, reaching the semifinals for a second straight World Cup.
A tougher test now awaits Lionel Scaloni’s side. On July 15, Argentina will face England in the semifinal at the Atlanta Stadium. The Three Lions reached the last four by beating Norway 2-1 in the quarterfinal, a match in which Jude Bellingham scored twice.
Argentina are one of the most successful teams in World Cup history, and Messi delivered a third title for his country at the Qatar World Cup. Now he has the chance to make more history: if Argentina become champions, the Albiceleste will be the first team since Brazil in 1958 and 1962 to win consecutive World Cups.
Messi is also in the running for individual honors, still well placed in the race for the Golden Boot. Scoring more goals in the semifinal and a possible final would add a new chapter to the Argentine captain’s legendary career.
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