Angel di Maria struck two minutes to the end of extra-time to give Argentina a hard-fought 1-0 win over valiant Switzerland and a place in the quarterfinals of the World Cup.

The match lacked fervour at the beginning as clear-cut chances were at a premium for both sides until just before the half-hour mark when Granit Xhaka shot straight at Argentine keeper Sergio Romero from close range.

The Swiss should have broken the deadlock again five minutes to half-time when Josip Drmic was put through on goal, only for the striker to send his effort straight at Romero as the half ended goalless.

Argentina began the second half on a better note but the final ball let them down while Gonzalo Higuian and Lionel Messi were denied by Diego Benaglio as the match went to extra-time.

Following a goalless first half of extra-time, Argentina showed more purpose in search of a winner which eventually came when Di Maria struck first-time past Benaglio after a mazy run by Lionel Messi.

The Argentines would then survive late drama as substitute Blerim Dzemaili headed onto the foot of the post from close range before sending the rebound agonisingly wide.

Argentina held on for the win and will next face the winner of the final second round match between Belgium and USA to be played later tonight.