Argentina reaches World Cup 2026 semifinals after beating Switzerland
Argentina staged a dramatic 3‑2 comeback against Egypt in the Round of 16, scoring three goals in the final 13 minutes through Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernández to move on to the quarter‑finals.
In Kansas City, Argentina defeated Switzerland 3‑1 after extra time to secure a place in the semifinals. Messi opened the scoring, the match was levelled by Dan Ndoye, and a VAR‑reviewed red card left Switzerland with ten men before Argentina added two more goals.
The team's progress sparked a wave of fan rituals: Argentine celebrities shared jerseys, lucky charms and videos of support, while journalist Manuela Moretta introduced a small image of the Virgin of Guadalupe that players touched as a new talisman.