JAKARTA - Argentina national team coach Lionel Scaloni admitted that Switzerland made it difficult for his team in the quarterfinal match at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas, Saturday local time or Sunday morning WIB.
"The reality is that we had difficulties today. We know they are a team that relies heavily on physicality. I think they put us in trouble," Scaloni said on FIFA's website, Sunday.
Argentina could only ensure their move to the semifinals after ending Switzerland's resistance through extra time with a score of 3-1.
Having taken the lead through Alexis Mac Allister's goal, Argentina had to play extra time after the Swiss equalized through Dan Ndoye's goal.
In addition, Argentina had a superior number of players from the 72nd minute after Swiss striker Breel Embolo received a second yellow card from the referee for diving.
Argentina then sealed the victory in the second half of extra time thanks to goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez.
Scaloni assessed that Argentina's success in defeating Switzerland and advancing to the semifinals was inseparable from luck and Lionel Messi and his colleagues must be able to improve their game when facing England.
"We are not able to get out of certain situations. In fact, today luck was on our side because the opponent lost a player due to a red card," said Scaloni.
"Since then, the team has started to launch attacks. We have to be realistic; there are things that need to be improved, but winning is always better," he concluded.
Argentina is scheduled to face England at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Thursday (16/7) at 02.00 WIB.
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