Messi’s Goal Streak Ends, but Assist Helps Argentina Beat Switzerland 3-1

Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail

Lionel Messi’s remarkable World Cup scoring run came to an end, but the Argentine captain still played a decisive role as Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 after extra time to secure a place in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals.

The defending champions made a strong start to the match, taking the lead in the 10th minute. Messi created the opportunity by winning a corner kick before delivering an accurate cross into the penalty area, where Alexis Mac Allister headed the ball into the net.

Switzerland fought back and equalized in the 67th minute, forcing the Round of 16 clash into extra time after neither side could find another goal in normal play.

Argentina regained control in the second half of extra time when Julian Alvarez scored with a powerful strike in the 112th minute. Lautaro Martinez added another goal before the final whistle to seal a 3-1 victory.

Although Messi did not score, he remained influential throughout the match with his creativity and leadership. During the second half, he also received medical attention after taking a blow near his right eye but continued playing.

Before the match, Switzerland coach Murat Yakin was asked how his team planned to contain Messi, who had entered the game on an impressive scoring streak and remained among the tournament’s leading goal scorers.

Responding with a smile, Yakin said there were several ways to deal with a player of Messi’s quality and added that the real challenge was successfully carrying those plans onto the field.

With the victory, Argentina advances to the World Cup semi-finals, where it will face England in Atlanta on Wednesday as it continues its pursuit of another world title.