Argentina in next stage and Switzerland out

A goal scored by Di María 12 minutes into the second part of the extra-time has earned Argentina their place in the quarterfinals of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, and sent Switzerland back home. The South Americans will now play the winner from Belgium vs USA.

The party on the bleachers in the first half was taken over by the Argentinian fans at the Itaquerão Stadium, where the match was held, as they were seen jumping and singing at the top of their lungs. During the second part of the game, however, the Argentinian crowd grew silent, only to cheer again during extra-time.

The game kicked off with most clashes in the midfield. In the 24th minute, following a foul in the Swiss penalty area, Messi gave it to Higuaín so he could head it over the goal. In the 26th minute, though, Switzerland fought back, but goalkeeper Romero kept his team from danger by kicking the ball away. Most possession was seen on the Argentinian side during the first half, but the most dangerous moves were pulled off by the Europeans.

After the half-time, the Europeans were again brought under pressure, but the best move came once again from them, who, five minutes into the second half, saw Shaqiri give it to Drmic, who kicked poorly and missed a great goal opportunity. Later on, Messi’s team took over, in spite of the few real chances to score.

In the 32th minute, Messi delivered a low kick, only to be saved by the Swiss goalkeeper. In an attempt to rescue the ball, Benaglio clashed with Argentinian Palacio. The referee gave no foul and the Swiss defense manage to send the ball away for a corner. A goalless match throughout.

Extra-time

In the first part of extra-time, the two teams seemed to do very little in the way taking chances. The Brazilian crowd, with a larger presence at the stadium, started to take advantage of the tension and the silence that seemed to take control of the South Americans to shout “Olé!” whenever the Swiss squad touched the ball. No goals on either side yet again.

In the second stage of extra-time, the Latin Americans seemed to be brought back to life, and, in the third minute, Di María pulled off a wonderful shot from right before the area, which defensive demanded impressive defensive skills from Benaglio. The goal, however, was only scored in the 12th minute, when Di María, the most active player in the Albiceleste, collected the ball from Messi and kicked it right into the net. It was the only goal of the duel.

In the following minute, Switzerland had a chance to equalize, with a header from Dzemaili, who hit the crossbar. Game over, as Argentina moves forwards, and Switzerland heads back home after a nice performance.

Translated by Fabrício Ferreira