Lionel Messi It was the first time in 10 games at the 2026 World Cup that the Argentina captain failed to score, but the Argentina captain still played a key role in Saturday’s 3-1 quarter-final extra-time victory over Switzerland.Messi’s run of nine consecutive goals came to an end, but he set up Argentina’s opener to seal a semi-final spot for the defending champions. Argentina will now face England in the semi-finals.
Messi’s magic
Argentina took the lead in the 10th minute through Alexis McAllister. The move started with Messi winning a corner with a deft touch from the left. The Inter Miami star then delivered a perfect cross that Mike Allister headed home to make it 1-0.The Swiss team launched a counterattack in the second half, and Dan Ndoye equalized in the 67th minute, sending the game into overtime.Julian Alvarez restored Argentina’s lead with a brilliant long-range shot in the 112th minute, and Lautaro Martinez sealed the 3-1 victory with a goal in the final seconds.
Switzerland successfully prevents Messi from scoring
Before the game, Switzerland coach Murat Yakin was asked how his side planned to stop Messi, who had scored in each of his nine previous World Cup appearances.Yakin replied with a smile: “This is a very surprising problem. There are many solutions, and we will try our best to find the best solution. We can talk a lot, but in the end it must really translate to the court, and we do have our solution.”Switzerland managed to stop Messi from scoring, but they couldn’t stop him from influencing the game with his passing and creativity.
Scaloni praises Messi
Messi has once again enjoyed a memorable World Cup campaign, scoring eight goals before the match against Switzerland and helping Argentina reach the semi-finals.Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni once again praised his captain after the victory.“He’s like a machine. People who don’t know him that well might be surprised and at 39 years old some might think he’s not up to the challenge.”Scaloni added: “But I’ve said before that as long as he wants to be the best, I’m not saying that because I’m coaching him, but because if he wants to continue, he will continue to be the best.”Although Messi’s scoring streak was ended, his assist allowed him to once again play a decisive role, helping Argentina get one step closer to defending their title. fifa world cup title.
