Nicolás Otamendi’s final World Cup qualifier took an unexpected turn. The Benfica defender saw a direct red card just 31 minutes into the match between Ecuador and Argentina. This happened when he brought down Enner Valencia, who was sprinting alone towards Argentina’s goal.
The referee’s decision to send off Otamendi was confirmed after a quick check with VAR. This early exit meant a premature end to what was his last game in a World Cup qualification phase. It was a tough way to say goodbye to that chapter of his international career.
It’s worth noting that both teams, Ecuador and Argentina, had already secured their spots in the main tournament of the 2026 World Cup. Otamendi is expected back in Lisbon tomorrow. He will rejoin his club team, Benfica, two days before they host Santa Clara. That important match kicks off at 8:15 PM and is part of the fifth round of the Liga Portugal Betclic season.
