Defending champions Argentina booked their place in the semifinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after overcoming a spirited Switzerland side 3-1 after extra time in a dramatic quarterfinal clash at Kansas City Stadium on Sunday, July 12 (Philippine Standard Time).
The Albiceleste were pushed to their limits by a disciplined Swiss outfit before their quality eventually prevailed in the additional 30 minutes. Goals from Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez in extra time sealed the victory, ensuring Lionel Scaloni’s side remained on course to defend the title they won in Qatar four years ago.
The hard-fought triumph sets up one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament—a semifinal showdown against longtime rivals England, renewing one of international football’s most storied rivalries on the sport’s biggest stage.
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Following the victory, Argentina captain Lionel Messi admitted the prospect of facing England in a World Cup semifinal holds special significance, both because of the history shared by the two nations and because it will be the first time in his illustrious international career that he has faced the Three Lions.
Despite competing in five previous World Cups and numerous international tournaments, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has remarkably never come up against England in an official match. That changes on Thursday when Argentina and England meet with a place in the World Cup final at stake.
Speaking after the quarterfinal victory, Messi acknowledged the rich history surrounding the fixture while insisting that his generation remains focused solely on the challenge ahead.
“Everything I have seen and remember about Argentina vs. England from 1986 is from videos and images that Argentinians constantly watch and relive. But I think this group is used to playing football matches regardless of the opponent,” Messi said.
Although Messi was not yet born when Argentina defeated England in the iconic quarterfinal at the 1986 FIFA World Cup in Mexico, the match remains one of football’s most famous encounters.
That contest saw the late Diego Maradona score two of the most memorable goals in football history. His controversial “Hand of God” goal was followed just minutes later by the breathtaking solo effort later dubbed the “Goal of the Century,” a performance that has become part of Argentine football folklore while continuing to haunt England supporters nearly four decades later.
The rivalry was reignited at the 1998 World Cup in France when England captain David Beckham was sent off following an altercation with Diego Simeone, with Argentina eventually advancing on penalties.
Lionel Messi is ready to take on England in the next round 👀 pic.twitter.com/WoMV5t5dkV
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) July 12, 2026
Those historic moments have ensured that every meeting between the two nations carries added emotion and significance beyond the football itself.
Messi, however, believes the current Argentine squad is focused on writing its own chapter rather than dwelling on the past. While acknowledging England’s quality, the 39-year-old knows his team must produce another elite performance if they are to keep their hopes of consecutive World Cup titles alive.
“Obviously, playing against England is special because they are a powerhouse, and matches against powerhouses are always special. Personally, it’s the first time I’m going to play against them. I have played everyone except England, so it will be nice for that reason. And we will experience it for what it is: a World Cup semifinal against a powerhouse, a great team, and we will try to arrive in the best possible shape to compete again,” he added.
Argentina’s quarterfinal victory was far from straightforward. Switzerland frustrated the defending champions for long periods, forcing extra time with an organized defensive display and disciplined tactical approach.
However, Argentina’s superior attacking depth ultimately proved decisive. Álvarez broke the deadlock in extra time before Martínez added another to put the match beyond doubt, sending the South American giants into their third consecutive World Cup semifinal.
Álvarez, who once again delivered on the biggest stage, praised his teammates for maintaining their composure under pressure and quickly shifted his focus toward the challenge posed by England.
“We are proud to be among the top four teams in the world. England, we know, has impressive players. They are a great team that’s been doing things well this World Cup but we need to recuperate and prepare our game,” Alvarez continued.
England, meanwhile, have impressed throughout the tournament with a balanced squad featuring a blend of experienced stars and emerging talents. Their run to the semifinals has reinforced their status as one of the favorites to lift the trophy, setting the stage for a heavyweight encounter between two footballing superpowers.
With a place in the World Cup final on the line, Thursday’s clash promises to be another memorable chapter in one of international football’s greatest rivalries.
For Argentina, it represents an opportunity to move one step closer to successfully defending their world title. For Messi, it offers the chance to finally face England in a World Cup—a missing piece in an already legendary international career.
The blockbuster semifinal between Argentina and England is scheduled for Thursday, July 16 (Philippine Standard Time), at Atlanta Stadium, with the winner advancing to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
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