Analysis The numbers behind the result
Argentina edge Switzerland in extra time with clinical finishing
Argentina deserved their 3-1 victory over Switzerland, outperforming their opponents in both expected goals (1.96 vs 0.53) and chance creation (22 total shots vs 11). While possession favoured Argentina (59%), Switzerland initially stayed competitive through Ndoye's 67th-minute equaliser, converting one of their five shots on target. The turning point came in the 72nd minute, when Switzerland's Embolo received a red card, forcing his side to play a man down for the remainder of the match.
Argentina capitalised on the numerical advantage, with Alvarez (112') and Martinez (120+1') delivering decisive goals in extra time. Despite both sides having four saves apiece, Switzerland failed to replicate Argentina's clinical edge, underperforming their xG (scoring 1 from 0.53). Key contributions came from Mac Allister, who opened the scoring in the 10th minute, and Messi, who provided the assist.
The decisive stat was Argentina's shots inside the box (12 vs Switzerland's 5), highlighting their ability to break down Switzerland’s defence and create higher-quality chances when it mattered most.