Argentina Defeats Switzerland 3-1, Wins Another Controversial 2026 FIFA World Cup Match
Argentina is moving on to the FIFA World Cup Semifinals once again, and not only that, controversy has ensued once more. Switzerland’s Breel Embolo was sent packing after a VAR review found he was diving for a ball and flopping. With the game tied at 1-1 and the Swiss down a man, Madrid striker Julian Alvarez stole the show with what may be considered the goal of the tournament in extra time. Saturday night’s contest was the first without a goal from Lionel Messi in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This game was incredibly long and wasn't in Argentina's hands with 10 minutes left of overtime, and it was yet another game in which fans were outraged by the referees' decisions to give the reigning champions a beneficial call. With the World Cup Semifinals set and Argentina preparing to face Jude Bellingham and England, here’s a pair of takeaways to think on.
Argentina Is Slowly Becoming the Villain of Soccer Fans Across the Globe
As the saying goes, you either die a hero or live long enough to see yourself become the villain. Right now, ask any football fan from Miami to London, and Messi’s squad is the villain. Although ‘El Messias’ has long been beloved by fans throughout his career, especially after he made World Cup history earlier in the tournament, the preferential treatment given to Argentina by VAR and referee crews across multiple games this summer has become increasingly noticeable. The preferential treatment was already called to attention four years ago in Qatar, when the legend was not called for a handball he clearly hit. Still, now in 2026, the narrative across social media and broadcast stations is clear-the fans are tired of Argentina.
Will Argentina Be Viewed as the Underdog Against England?
England, powered by Bellingham and the consummate veteran Harry Kane, has been on a major roll. In their last three matches, the ‘Three Lions’ have had to come back from long-winded deficits and crowds that looked to crush them, especially against Mexico in Estadio Azteca. Looking at Argentina, they’ll likely be the betting odds favorites, but it should be argued that after three close and controversial matches with Cape Verde, Egypt, and now Switzerland, England should be the real favorites. Obviously, Argentina has ‘La Pulga’, Alvarez, Alexis Mac Allister, and the championship pedigree, but the energy momentum is certainly swinging towards England.
