Argentina survived a grueling extra-time battle against 10-man Switzerland on Sunday, securing a 3-1 victory that sets up a blockbuster World Cup semifinal against England. Julian Alvarez's stunning 112th-minute strike proved decisive, breaking Swiss resistance after they had fought valiantly with a man down. Main Developments Lionel Messi orchestrated the opening goal in the 10th minute, delivering a corner that Alexis Mac Allister headed home. It was Argentina's first shot on target, and it gave the defending champions an early cushion. Switzerland equalized in the 67th minute through Dan Ndoye, who finished a clever pass from Ricardo Rodriguez. The Swiss had grown into the game after a sluggish start, finally breaking through against a dominant Argentina side. Read also: Noskova Overcomes Emotional Collapse to Win Wimbledon at 21 The momentum shifted five minutes later when Breel Embolo received a second yellow card for simulation after a VAR review. Switzerland defended resolutely through extra time, repelling wave after wave of attacks until Alvarez curled a breathtaking shot into the top corner in the 112th minute. Lautaro Martinez added a late third goal, sealing the victory for Lionel Scaloni's team at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City. Argentina now extends their unbeaten run to 12 World Cup matches. Background Argentina entered the tournament as defending champions, seeking to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup. They swept through the group stage but faced challenges in the knockout rounds, struggling past Cape Verde and needing a spectacular comeback against Egypt. Switzerland, meanwhile, aimed to reach the World Cup semifinals for the first time in their history. They had shown resilience throughout the tournament but were undone by Embolo's costly dismissal. The match marked another chapter in the storied rivalry between Argentina and England, who will now meet in the semifinals. The two nations have a history of tension on and off the pitch, including the 1982 Falklands War and Diego Maradona's infamous "Hand of God" goal during the 1986 World Cup. Why It Matters This victory keeps Argentina on track to defend their title, a feat last achieved by Brazil over 60 years ago. The semifinal against England carries immense historical weight, with both teams among the top four in FIFA's world rankings. For Switzerland, the defeat ends a historic run but underscores their growth as a competitive force in international football. The match also highlighted the fine margins in World Cup knockout football, where a single moment of brilliance or a controversial VAR decision can decide a game. What's Next Argentina will face England in the semifinals on Wednesday in Atlanta. Thomas Tuchel's England side advanced after a 2-1 victory over Norway earlier on Saturday. The match promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with both teams boasting world-class talent and a bitter rivalry dating back decades. The winner will advance to the World Cup final, with Argentina aiming to become the first team in six decades to retain the title. England, meanwhile, seeks their first World Cup final appearance since 1966.