12/07/2026 03:04 - Deportes
The Argentine National Team, managed by Lionel Scaloni, secured their ticket to the World Cup semifinals after defeating Switzerland 3-1 in a thrilling match that extended into extra time. Following tense previous encounters against Cape Verde and Egypt, goals from Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez, and Alexis Mac Allister sealed the qualification, sparking an explosion of joy across the country.
The match, played on July 11, 2026, in Kansas City, showcased an Argentine side that suffered more than expected, especially after Switzerland's momentary equalizer and the sending-off of Swiss striker Breel Embolo. However, the team overcame the adversity and ultimately imposed their hierarchy in the final minutes.
For those unfamiliar with Argentine football culture, when the national team wins, the streets become the true stadium. Immediately after the match, hundreds of people gathered at the traditional corner of 7 and 50 in La Plata. To provide some local context, La Plata is the capital of the Buenos Aires Province, and this specific intersection is famously known as the city's primary gathering point to celebrate national team achievements.
The crowd grew minute by minute, bringing together youth, teenagers, and entire families who braved the winter cold with Argentine flags, national team jerseys, and fireworks. Traffic was taken over by an endless caravan of cars and motorcycles, whose horns mixed with classic World Cup chants. The early hours of July 12, 2026 will be remembered as another unforgettable night where the dream of winning the World Cup again felt more alive than ever.
Social media quickly reacted to the intense match. According to reports by LA NACION, memes focused on the fans' collective suffering and Scaloni's tactical decisions. The substitution bringing on 'Flaco' López over other alternatives like Nico Paz or Colo Barco generated all kinds of humorous reactions on Twitter.
Additionally, Alexis Mac Allister's goal brought up the name of Cami Mayan, his ex-girlfriend, making her one of the most talked-about topics of the night. The previous anguish and subsequent relief found their perfect reflection in digital graphic humor.
With Argentina already installed among the top four teams in the tournament, attention quickly shifted to the next challenge. The national team will face England on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 4:00 PM (Argentine time) for a place in the grand final of the 2026 World Cup.
The European side arrives at this stage after defeating Norway 2-1, thanks to a brace from their star Jude Bellingham. This is a high-voltage matchup that promises to keep everyone on the edge of their seats.
Sources: El Dia (El Dia), LA NACION.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
