Otamendi emotional after blunder in Ecuador-Argentina, Benfica star bows out | OneFootball

Argentina lost 1-0 to Ecuador in a qualifying match for the 2026 World Cup. Nicolás Otamendi was the team captain in Lionel Messi's absence, but he ended up being sent off in what was his last qualifying match. At the end, he left a message for the fans.

"These qualifiers were based on hard work, dedication, and joy, above all. Because for things to go well, you need to come to enjoy and know how to represent this jersey", began the 'number 30' of the reds.

Otamendi thanked those who accompanied him along the journey, which will officially end at the 2026 World Cup: "Proud of this group today, tomorrow, and always. Let's go, Argentina. This was my last chapter in the qualifiers, thank you for all the support".

Despite the defeat, Otamendi and company have qualified for the next World Cup - and already know some possible opponents. The player's national team from Benfica finishes the qualifying phase in first place in the group, with 38 points earned.

Ecuador (29), Colombia, Uruguay, Brazil, and Paraguay (28) also qualified, while Bolivia (20) will play the playoff. Venezuela (18), Peru (12), and Chile (11) are out of the tournament, which will be held in the United States of America, Canada, and Mexico.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.