sport
Julián Álvarez's Extra-Time Goal Puts Argentina in World Cup Semis Spotlight
The forward's strike against Switzerland has local Darwin soccer fans buzzing ahead of a potential England clash.
How we reported this
Julián Álvarez scored in the 118th minute to give Argentina a 1-0 win over 10-man Switzerland in the World Cup quarter-final on 11 July 2026.
The result sets up a semi-final against England and keeps Argentina on track to defend their title in the expanded 48-team tournament hosted across North America. The goal came after Breel Embolo received a red card in the 72nd minute, shifting momentum toward the South Americans in extra time at the venue in Atlanta.
Local viewing scenes in Darwin
Supporters packed the Darwin Football Club rooms on Mitchell Street to watch the match on big screens, while another group gathered at the Parap Tavern in the inner suburb of Parap. The Northern Territory Football Association has run weekly World Cup watch parties at both venues since the group stage began in June, drawing crowds of more than 200 people each night for key matches.
Entry to the events costs $15, which includes a drink and access to the live broadcast. The association reported 1,850 registered members across its Darwin and Palmerston branches as of 1 July, up 18 per cent from the same point in 2022.
Next steps for fans and players
Argentina will face England on 15 July. The Darwin Football Club has announced another watch party at its Mitchell Street rooms starting at 8pm local time, with doors opening two hours earlier for pre-match analysis sessions run by club coaches.
Supporters can also follow updates through the Northern Territory Football Association website or attend free junior clinics at TIO Stadium on Sunday mornings if they want to channel the excitement into their own game.