Argentina are back in the last four of the World Cup. By overcoming Switzerland (3-1 after extra time), the Albiceleste continue their dream of a historic back-to-back title and will face England in the semi-finals. Meanwhile, France will take on Spain with, in the background, a scenario that many are already beginning to imagine: a third France-Argentina encounter in eight years, following the memorable fixtures of 2018 and 2022.
But if the world champions are still standing, their journey continues to fuel debate.
Because this Argentina does not dominate their opponents the way some great teams of the past did. They suffer, sometimes doubt, but almost always end up finding a solution. Against Cape Verde in the round of sixteen, as against Switzerland in the quarter-final, Lionel Scaloni's men were pushed to their limits before drawing on their experience, their bench, and that ruthlessness which defines the great footballing nations.
A qualification that leaves a bitter taste for the Swiss
For over an hour, Switzerland delivered one of the finest performances in their World Cup history. Well-organised, aggressive in the best sense of the word, and capable of matching Argentina's technical challenge, the Nati had even gained the psychological upper hand after equalising.
Then came the turning point of the match. In the 72nd minute, Breel Embolo was sent off following a VAR review. The referee applied, for the first time in a World Cup, the new interpretation of the so-called 'mistaken identity' rule, ruling that the Swiss striker had simulated contact. Already booked, Embolo received a second yellow card, meaning he was dismissed.
A decision in line with the regulations introduced before the tournament, but one that immediately triggered a wave of reactions. Coach Murat Yakin did not hide his frustration, arguing that the decision had changed the fate of the quarter-final. Part of the international press shares this sentiment, considering the punishment extremely harsh in a match of such importance — even if it complies with the letter of the rules.
Argentina, once again favoured by refereeing decisions?
It would be an exaggeration to claim that Argentina systematically benefit from referees. No evidence supports such a claim. However, one observation has recurred regularly across several major competitions: when controversial decisions involving the Albiceleste arise, they often seem to go in their favour. Following certain debates in 2022, this new quarter-final naturally reignites discussions on social media and among several pundits.
The debate pits two sharply contrasting views against each other.
- For some, the rules are clear and the referee simply applied them.
- For others, football cannot be reduced to a cold reading of the rulebook, especially when a decision with such far-reaching consequences alters the balance of a quarter-final.
The debate is far from over.
A team that knows how to suffer… and wins
Beyond the controversy, one thing remains clear: this Argentina possesses something very few teams master. They never panic. Even when they are unsettled, even when they no longer fully control the ball, they continue to believe the match will eventually turn their way.
Against Switzerland, Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez once again illustrated that bench depth which so often makes the difference in major competitions. This squad may not impress quite as much as the one crowned in Qatar, but it retains that blend of experience, composure, and ruthlessness that allows them to rise to the biggest occasions.
And as long as Lionel Messi is there, no one can truly write off the world champions.
A third France-Argentina clash in the making?
Before dreaming of a new final between the two giants, there are enormous obstacles to overcome. Argentina will need to eliminate an England side that is gathering momentum; France will need to get past a Spain team that has been impressive throughout the tournament.
But the mere fact that the prospect of a third France-Argentina duel in eight years is now a credible one speaks volumes about the dominance of these two nations over world football.
2018, 2022… and then perhaps 2026?
The story has not yet been written. But as long as Argentina continue to survive every storm, no one will be able to strip them of their status as candidates for their own succession.
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