Argentina legend Nicolas Otamendi bids farewell following 2026 World Cup Final heartbreak
Buenos Aires: Argentina centre-back Nicolas Otamendi has confirmed his retirement from international football, concluding a storied 17-year career highlighted by victories at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and two Copa America tournaments.
The 38-year-old defender earned 139 caps for his country and featured as part of the squad that advanced to this year's World Cup final hosted in the United States, according to Reuters.
The reigning champions ultimately suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against Spain in the championship fixture, which served as Otamendi's farewell appearance for the national team.
"Today I have to write the most difficult words of my career. As fate would have it, my last match was a World Cup final. It wasn't the result we wanted, but I'm leaving with my head held high, knowing that this team gave it their all right up to the very last second. Thank you, Argentina, for allowing me to fulfil the dream of becoming a world champion," Otamendi shared via Instagram.
Argentina's campaign to defend their global crown concluded in disappointment following a 1-0 extra-time reverse against Spain. Propelled by Lionel Messi, the Albiceleste exhibited notable tenacity during the knockout rounds, recovering from a two-goal deficit to eliminate Egypt in the Round of 32 prior to executing a dramatic late rally to edge England in the semi-finals.
Nevertheless, an impressive Spanish side managed by Luis de la Fuente ultimately terminated Argentina's title reign, outperforming the holders to capture the trophy.
Otamendi recently returned to domestic football in his native country to sign for Argentine powerhouse River Plate, having previously concluded a prosperous European career that included stints with Porto, Valencia, Manchester City, and Benfica.
As a pillar of Argentina's recent golden era, the veteran defender represented the national team across four World Cups, securing his reputation as one of the country's most decorated backline operators.
ANI