Argentina's extra-time record offers England World Cup warning | OneFootball

Argentina strengthened their reputation as World Cup specialists after edging Switzerland 3-1 in extra time to book a place in the 2026 semi-finals and set a date with England in Atlanta.

The South American side have now played more extra-time matches than any other nation in World Cup history. Saturday's quarter-final was Argentina's 13th match to go beyond 90 minutes, moving them ahead of Germany (12) at the top of the all-time list.

It was also the second time in this tournament that the reigning champions had required extra time to progress, having previously defeated Cape Verde in the round of 16 after an additional 30 minutes.

Lionel Scaloni's side looked on course for a straightforward victory when Alexis Mac Allister headed them in front after just 10 minutes, but Dan Ndoye's second-half equaliser forced extra time. Julián Álvarez restored the lead in the 112th minute before Lautaro Martínez wrapped up a 3-1 victory deep into added time.

The Albiceleste also boast an outstanding record in World Cup matches that extend beyond regulation time. They have progressed from 11 of their 13 extra-time or penalty shootout contests, winning five in extra time and six via spot-kicks. Their only two eliminations came against Germany, in the 2006 quarter-finals and the 2014 final.

One of those knockout victories came against England in the 1998 World Cup last 16. After a dramatic 2-2 draw in Saint-Étienne, featuring David Beckham's infamous red card, Argentina triumphed 4-3 on penalties. Nearly three decades later, the two nations are set to renew one of football's greatest rivalries with a place in the 2026 World Cup final at stake.

Teams with the most extra-time matches in World Cup history: