ARGENTINA FACE ENGLAND IN WORLD CUP SEMI-FINAL AFTER EXTRA-TIME WIN

Argentina advanced to the World Cup semi-final after defeating Switzerland in extra-time in Kansas City. The match went beyond ninety minutes, marking the second consecutive knockout game in which Argentina required additional time to secure victory. Argentina will face England in the semi-final on Wednesday evening in Atlanta, after England defeated Norway 2-1, also in extra-time.

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni attributed the difficulty of the Switzerland match to physical demands. Scaloni stated that Switzerland presented a strong physical challenge and that Argentina struggled to win duels against them. According to FIFA statistics cited in reporting on the tournament, Argentina ranked 10th for sprints made among competing nations and 48th out of 48 teams for average speed of player movement. Jude Bellingham of England ranked second for most sprints made in the World Cup, whilst Enzo Fernández of Argentina tied for 19th place in that metric. Argentina have scored in late stages of their recent matches, with goals recorded in the 79th, 83rd, 92nd, 111th, 112th and 121st minutes across their last three games.

The semi-final represents a significant fixture between the two nations. Scaloni's comments on physicality suggest Argentina perceive it as a potential disadvantage heading into the match against England. The fixture is scheduled for Wednesday in Atlanta.