Scaloni: It took a lot of hard work to secure this win

Lionel Scaloni described Argentina’s place in the World Cup semi-finals as a historic achievement after his side came through a tense 3-1 win over Switzerland.

Argentina needed late goals to settle a lively and controversial quarter-final. Switzerland held firm for long spells, but the game swung after Breel Embolo was sent off in the 72nd minute following a VAR review.

Scaloni admitted his team had been pushed hard and said they were helped by a bit of luck. He said Switzerland’s physical approach made life difficult, but that the extra man allowed Argentina to play more openly.

The result sends Argentina into the last four for a second straight World Cup, where they will face England.

Scaloni said the identity of the opponent did not matter to him, adding that his side must recover first. He also pointed to Thomas Tuchel’s influence on England, describing them as a team playing good football under a top coach.