Once we saw Lionel Messi lead the charge in the 117' we could all predict something magical was about to happen. However, so did everyone in a Swiss uniform as they all collapsed to Messi. As Messi realized his opportunity, he set up DiMaria down the right wing for a beautiful on-the-ground goal to the far post to lead Argentina to 1-0 win over Switzerland.
This game was slow at first. Argentina handily led possession in the first half, but they were only able to take three shots on goal. Switzerland had its chances though. At the 28’ mark, Shaqiri had a brilliant run down the right wing and passed it into the middle of the penalty box to Xhaka, who saw his shot be barely saved by Romero’s left foot.
As the game continued, Argentina’s chances increased and they seemed to add more and more pressure on Switzerland keeper, Benaglio. Around the 88’ the fans were waiting for Messi to come up big and save Argentina once again. However, the Swiss defense proved to be too tough and the game went into extra time. Free soccer! FYI this is also the fourth game to go into extra time in this year’s round of 16. In comparison, in the 2010 World Cup, there were only a total for four extra games that went into extra time.
Switzerland came out more aggressive in the first half of extra time and prevented Argentina from seeing much of their attacking third. However, that seemed to change in the second half of extra time as Argentina increased the pressure. With only about 3 minutes remaining until dreaded penalty kicks, Lionel Messi led the charge down the middle of the field and assisted DiMaria for the game-deciding goal of the match.
BUT the game was not completely over. In the 120’ Shaqiri had another beautiful cross into the middle and Dzemaili headed it straight into the post. As Univision’s announcer simply put it, “The post is Argentinian today!”
Argentina will play the winner of Belgium and the United States on July 5th. This was a tough game, but a great hors d’oeuvre for the main course today featuring USMNT.
