World Cup 2026: Julián Álvarez's extra-time golazo powers Argentina's 3-1 quarterfinal win over 10-man Switzerland

Argentina needed a late winner again on Saturday night. And Julián Álvarez provided a golazo.

Álvarez’s incredible strike from outside the penalty box in the 112th minute put Argentina up a goal in its 3-1 extra-time win over 10-man Switzerland. It was Argentina’s second extra-time win in three knockout-round games in this World Cup and the defending World Cup champions will face England in the semifinals on Wednesday.

Just watch the goal seemingly come from out of nowhere to beat Switzerland goalkeeper Gregor Kobel at the far post.

Álvarez’s goal came after Argentina spent the final 20-plus minutes of the second half and all of extra time with a man advantage after Breel Embolo’s controversial red card for simulation. But Switzerland’s defense had been absolute fantastic and denied Argentina time and time again when it had tried to work the ball inside the penalty area.

Of course, a 10-man defense in a low block can only stretch so far. You can tell that hardly anyone expected Alvarez to let loose from that position.

Once Alvarez scored, Switzerland had to abandon its hopes of defending hard for penalty kicks and search for the tying goal. That immediately it open on the counter, and Lautaro Martinez turned it into an Argentinian celebration to make it 3-1 in the 121st minute.

The party was also a big sigh of relief. Just look at Martinez and Lionel Messi after the goal.

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