Lionel Messi and Argentina face a balanced Switzerland side that could force a World Cup draw

Defending champions Argentina have survived two dramatic knockout battles against Cabo Verde and Egypt, relying heavily on Lionel Messi's enduring brilliance to keep their dream of a consecutive world title alive.

The World Cup 2026 is nearing a conclusion as the knockout rounds hot up ahead of next weekend’s final.

France and Spain have already booked their places in the last four, leaving four teams battling to complete the semifinal lineup.

Argentina and Switzerland clash in a quarter-final encounter at the World Cup, with both nations seeking to take on England in the semi-finals.