Lionel Messi failed to score for the first time in 10 FIFA World Cup 2026 matches, but the Argentina captain still played a key role in his team’s 3-1 extra-time win over Switzerland in the quarterfinals on Saturday.Messi’s nine-game scoring streak ended, but he provided the assist for Argentina’s opening goal as the defending champions booked their place in the semifinals.Argentina will now face England in the last four.
Messi magic
Argentina took the lead in the 10th minute through Alexis McAllister. The move started with Messi, who won a corner after some good footwork on the left side. The Inter Miami star then delivered a perfect cross into the box, which Mac Allister headed home to make it 1-0.Switzerland fought back in the second half, with Dan Ndoye scoring the equalizer in the 67th minute to force extra time.Julian Alvarez restored Argentina’s lead with a brilliant long-range strike in the 112th minute before Lautaro Martinez sealed a 3-1 victory with a goal in the final seconds.
Switzerland managed to prevent Messi from scoring
Before the game, Switzerland coach Murat Yakin was asked how his team planned to stop Messi, who has scored in each of his previous nine World Cup games.Yakin replied with a smile. “This is a strange question. There are many solutions, and we will try to find the best solution. We can talk a lot about it, but in the end it must be translated on the pitch, and we have our solutions.”Switzerland succeeded in keeping Messi off the scoresheet, but they couldn’t stop him from influencing the game with his passing and creativity.
Scaloni praised Messi
Messi enjoyed another memorable World Cup campaign, scoring eight goals before the Switzerland match and helping Argentina reach the semifinals.Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni once again praised his captain after the victory.“He’s like a machine. Those who don’t know him well might be surprised, and at 39 years old some people might think he’s not up to the challenge.”Scaloni added: “But I’ve said it before, as long as he wants to be the best – and I’m not saying this because I’m coaching him – but because if he wants to continue, he will continue to be the best.”Although Messi’s incredible scoring streak has come to an end, his assist ensured he once again played a decisive role as Argentina moved a step closer to defending their FIFA World Cup title.