Lionel Messi and Argentina are gearing up for the 2026 World Cup to defend their title from Qatar 2022. However, they have received disappointing news—an important defensive player will not be available for their opening match.
Nicolas Otamendi has been given a one-match suspension by FIFA for “denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity” after his red card during the qualifier against Ecuador.
Unfortunately for Argentina, Otamendi’s suspension cannot be served during friendly matches, including those on the official schedule. This means he is still eligible to play in upcoming friendlies against Venezuela and Puerto Rico.
As stated in FIFA’s regulations, only yellow cards accumulated during qualifiers are cleared before the World Cup, while suspensions from red cards carry over into the tournament.
Nicolas Otamendi receives a red card against Ecuador. (Getty Images)
Could Otamendi serve his suspension in the Finalissima?
If Argentina and Spain play each other in the Finalissima—a match between the Copa America and Euro champions, possibly set for March—Otamendi would still be unable to serve his suspension.
This is due to the tournament being jointly organized by CONMEBOL and UEFA and not being part of the same competition framework as World Cup Qualifiers or the World Cup itself.
Otamendi isn’t the only player set to miss the 2026 World Cup opener
In addition to Otamendi, Moises Caicedo will also miss his team’s opening match in the 2026 World Cup. The Chelsea midfielder received a red card in the same qualifier against Ecuador.