Enzo Fernandez helped Argentina reach the 2026 World Cup semi-finals after a dramatic 3-1 extra-time victory over 10-man Switzerland.
The Chelsea midfielder started Saturday’s quarter-final in Kansas City as Argentina continued their title defence.
Lionel Scaloni’s side took the lead after 10 minutes. Alexis Mac Allister headed home Lionel Messi’s corner to give the holders an early advantage.
However, Switzerland created several chances and deservedly equalised through Dan Ndoye in the 67th minute.
The game changed five minutes later when Breel Embolo received a controversial second yellow card for simulation. Referee Slavko Vincic reversed his original decision to book Leandro Paredes following a VAR review.
Fernández completed the opening 90 minutes before Giovani Lo Celso replaced him ahead of extra time.
Enzo Fernández set for Chelsea reunion
Argentina struggled to break down Switzerland despite their numerical advantage. However, Julián Álvarez finally restored the lead with eight minutes of extra time remaining.
The striker curled an excellent 20-yard effort into the top corner before Lautaro Martínez completed the 3-1 quarter-final victory in added time.
Fernández has now started six of Argentina’s seven matches at the tournament. He also scored the late winner in the dramatic last-16 victory over Egypt.
Argentina will face England in Atlanta on Wednesday for a place in the World Cup final.
The match could put Fernández against Chelsea team-mates Reece James and Trevoh Chalobah. James returned from injury during England’s extra-time victory over Norway, while Chalobah remained on the bench.
Fernández played another demanding 90 minutes against Switzerland. His fitness and workload will remain important for Chelsea before he eventually returns to work under Xabi Alonso.
