Messi played the full 120 minutes as the defending champions battled to a dramatic 3-1 extra-time victory in Kansas City, booking a heavyweight World Cup semi-final against England.
His influence was immediate. Messi’s perfectly delivered corner found Alexis Mac Allister, who flicked a header beyond Gregor Kobel to hand Argentina a 10th-minute lead.
READ: Top South African coach facing sudden exit just months into African gig
Switzerland equalised through Dan Ndoye before Breel Embolo’s controversial dismissal reduced them to 10 men. Julian Alvarez eventually broke their resistance with a stunning strike in the 112th minute, while Lautaro Martinez completed the victory deep into extra time.
Messi’s evening went far deeper than the assist.
He registered 99 touches, completed 60 of his 69 passes and created six scoring opportunities. He also produced one big chance, completed five of his 11 crosses and finished with an expected-assists figure of 0.70.
The Inter Miami star completed three of his four attempted dribbles, made 44 carries and won eight duels.
ALSO: Only champions remain as World Cup semi-finals confirmed
Messi also attempted four shots and came agonisingly close to settling the match in second-half stoppage time, sending a fierce effort narrowly wide.
He now has eight goals and two assists across six appearances at the tournament, along with 22 key passes and seven big chances created.
There was no goal against Switzerland, but Messi once again shaped the game. Argentina’s great scorer became their great creator, dragging his country one step closer to defending their crown.
England are next. Messi’s final World Cup chapter continues.
🌟 | No goals, no problem
Lionel Messi v Switzerland:
👣 99 touches (🥈)
🅰️ 1 assist
📐 0.70 xA (🥇)
🔑 6 key passes (🥇)
↩️ 5/11 accurate crosses (🥇)
💨 3/4 successful dribbles (=🥇)
⚔️ 8/13 duels won (🥈)
⏭️ 8 progressive ball carries (🥇)
🏃 412.6m ball carrying distance… pic.twitter.com/9ysWMVBhbh— Sofascore Football (@Sofascore) July 12, 2026
Photo: Luke Hales/Getty Images
