Argentina's World Cup campaign has been defined by dramatic late victories and 'suffering,' as coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledged after their 3-1 extra-time quarter-final win over Switzerland. The defending champions have now taken two of their three knockout matches to extra time, setting up a semi-final clash with England in Atlanta.
Scaloni on legacy and fighting spirit
Throughout the tournament, Scaloni has been asked about the legacy of his team. On Friday, he referenced a viral video of a 10-year-old Argentine fan celebrating passionately after the last-16 comeback win over Egypt. 'The training staff and the players, we play football to see these things,' Scaloni said. 'Things that come from the heart. It’s incredible – a kid that age says that. If this team has a legacy, that’s what we want. That tomorrow, kids like that think that they can be here playing [for the national team] in the future.'
Quarter-final drama against Switzerland
Argentina took an early lead but conceded a second-half equalizer after a defensive lapse. Even after Switzerland received a red card, Argentina struggled to finish the game in regulation, with Lionel Messi missing two clear chances. Julian Alvarez scored a stunning curling strike in extra time, and Lautaro Martinez added a third goal at the death to secure the win.
'Every game in the World Cup, we are seeing that they’re like this,' said Alvarez. 'Sometimes it’s our turn [to suffer], but it’s also the same for our opponents. Tons of extra time, all of that. Whatever the case is, we know we will fight til the end. As long as we win, it’s fine.'
Suffering as part of Argentina's DNA
Scaloni emphasized that struggle is inherent to his team. 'To make the World Cup semi-finals you have to suffer,' he said. 'We did it in Qatar as well … Ultimately we always find the solutions, and in the end tonight we made it possible.' He added, 'This is part of our blood. It is part of our DNA. [These struggles] bring peace of mind. We are more experienced and we know what it feels like to be dominated by the opponent, to have an equalizer.'
England awaits in semi-final
Argentina will face England in the semi-finals, reviving one of football's most intense rivalries, marked by history and politics. Scaloni downplayed the significance, saying, 'This is just a football game, OK? … It is a football game and we will be playing against a very tough opponent with an excellent coach. And this is a football game. And that is all.'
Argentina will have just three days of rest after playing 120 minutes in two of their last three knockout matches. The team has shown resilience, but England presents a sterner test than previous opponents. Should Argentina advance, they will face Spain or France in the final.
