Swiss fans salute team after World Cup run ends in defeat by Argentina

NYON, Switzerland, July 12 : Swiss soccer fans saluted their team in the early hours of Sunday after their World Cup run came to an end with a 3-1 defeat by Argentina in the quarter-finals.

The Swiss had reached the quarter-finals for the first time since 1954, but fell one match short of an unprecedented semi-final appearance.

Their task was made all the more difficult with the absence of their leading scorer Johan Manzambi due to a knee injury, while Breel Embolo's controversial dismissal in the 72nd minute against Argentina changed the complexion of the match.

Despite the disappointment, fans were proud of their team's efforts and went back home in the early morning waving their Swiss flags.

"In our hearts you won, Switzerland," Switzerland fan Laura K. said in Nyon early on Sunday. "Ten against 11 with Argentina."

Swiss President Guy Parmelin said on social media that Murat Yakin's side had captivated the country.

"Despite today’s disappointment, what stands out for me above all is an exceptional campaign and a close-knit team that has thrilled the whole of Switzerland," he added.

Parmelin had caused a stir by wearing a red MAGA-style hat proclaiming: “Switzerland: Great Since 1291”, a reference to the country’s original federal charter, while attending their knockout match against Algeria in Vancouver.

Alexis Mac Allister had given Argentina an early lead in Kansas City before Dan Ndoye equalised for the Swiss in the 67th minute.

With the game heading to a penalty shootout, Argentina's Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez scored deep in extra time to secure a dramatic 3-1 win for the defending champions that set up a semi-final against England.

Some fans could not hide their disappointment.

"In my opinion, it's better not to