Switzerland national team captain Granit Xhaka described a single referee decision as having "killed the match" against Argentina in the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup.
Granit Xhaka
Club: Sunderland
Switzerland's national team bid farewell to the World Cup at the hands of the defending champions after losing 3-1 in a match that saw the expulsion of the team's striker Breel Embolo in the 72nd minute. (See details)
The Swiss captain said in statements reported by "The Athletic" network: "We started well and dominated the ball and did not create chances in the first half; Argentina had no chances except from a goal that came from a corner."
He added, "The second half was ours because we knew we could take risks gradually, we seized the opportunity and scored, and we were more energetic and confident, but the red card changed everything."
He continued, "It is painful to lose because of one decision by the referee; it is difficult to accept the matter after the match, because the dressing room was very quiet, and the disappointment we felt after the match against Argentina indicates the strength of the team's determination."
He concluded, "The rules do not change, but one decision kills the match; that is my opinion."
The referee awarded 18 fouls in favor of Argentina compared to 14 in favor of Switzerland, sent off Embolo for receiving two cautions, and showed 3 yellow cards to Argentina.
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Argentina's national team reached the semi-finals for the second consecutive time, which happens for the first time since 1986 and 1990 when they won the first title and lost the second at that time.
Argentina's national team has not lost in the last 13 matches in the World Cup, with 11 wins and two draws.
The match witnessed Switzerland falling behind in the score for the first time during the 2026 edition.
Argentina's national team will meet England next Wednesday in the golden square at Atalanta Stadium at ten in the evening.
