Argentina hold a 1-0 advantage over Switzerland at half-time in their 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-final after a closely contested opening 45 minutes.
Despite Switzerland enjoying more possession for long periods, the reigning champions made the most of their opportunities and struck through Alexis Mac Allister. Lionel Messi delivered a precise corner in the 10th minute, allowing the Liverpool midfielder to power a header into the top corner for his first goal of the tournament.
Switzerland responded positively and continued to dominate possession, but Murat Yakin’s side struggled to break down Argentina’s disciplined defense. Breel Embolo came closest to equalizing when Emiliano Martínez rushed off his line to deny the striker in a one-on-one situation. Fabian Rieder, Granit Xhaka and Djibril Sow also tested the Argentine backline, but none of their efforts seriously troubled the world champions.
Argentina looked comfortable protecting their lead and relied on their defensive organization while waiting for counter-attacking opportunities. Switzerland earned several dangerous free-kicks and corners before the break but failed to capitalize. With only one goal separating the two teams, the second half promises an intense battle for a place in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
