Otamendi reflects on Argentina farewell at La Bombonera, international career to end after the 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

Nicolás Otamendi played his final Argentina match on home soil at La Bombonera. According to Glorioso 1904, the Benfica captain will end his international career after the 2026 World Cup.

The 38-year-old started the friendly against Zambia, a night rich in symbolism as his Albiceleste journey nears its end.

In the 50th minute, Lionel Messi handed him penalty duties, and Otamendi converted to register his eighth international goal on his 130th cap.

On Instagram, he said he was proud of his country and this team, that a chapter had closed at home, and that one major objective still lies ahead. He also expressed gratitude to Argentina and urged the team on.

Otamendi ranks fifth on Argentina’s all-time appearance list, behind Messi, Mascherano, Di María and Zanetti.

After the Zambia match, goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez praised him as a reference for the group and said that, if that was his last game in Argentina, there was only thanks for what he has given.

Source: Glorioso 1904