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Lionel Messi's World Cup Scoring Streak Ends, but His Assist Spar

Messi still set up Argentina’s opener as Switzerland held him scoreless for the first time in nine World Cup matches.

  • On Saturday, Argentina defeated Switzerland 3-1 to advance in the World Cup, with Lionel Messi providing an assist despite his scoring streak ending.
  • Describing the 39-year-old Messi, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said, "He's like a machine," emphasizing the veteran forward's enduring excellence and motivation at the tournament.
  • Alexis Mac Allister scored in the 10th minute, Switzerland equalized in the 67th, and Julian Alvarez struck in the 112th minute before Lautaro Martinez sealed the victory.
  • Argentina will now face England in the semifinals on Wednesday in Atlanta, setting up a decisive match as the defending champions pursue the World Cup title.
  • Although his nine-match scoring streak ended, Messi holds the tournament record with 21 career goals, positioning him as a historic figure for Argentina's semifinal push.
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For years, the Argentine plan was clear: give the ball to Lionel Messi. But now that the weary master's legs are starting to falter in the knockout phase, Argentina never panics. The indestructible collective, in which the Simeone family also effortlessly sacrifices themselves for the world title, feels like primal force.

·Amersfoort, Netherlands (Kingdom of the)
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Sports Illustrated broke the news in New York, United States on Sunday, July 12, 2026.
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