Argentina defender Nicolas Otamendi announces retirement from international football
Buenos Aires, July 24
Argentina defender Nicolas Otamendi announced his retirement from international football, bringing the curtain down on a distinguished 17-year career in which he won the 2022 FIFA World Cup and two Copa America titles.
The 38-year-old centre-back made 139 appearances for Argentina and was part of the squad that reached this year's FIFA World Cup final in the United States.
The defending champions fell 1-0 to Spain in the title match, marking Otamendi's final appearance for the national team, as per Reuters.
"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 posted on Instagram.
Argentina's bid to retain the World Cup title ended in heartbreak after a 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the final. Inspired by Lionel Messi, La Albiceleste showed remarkable resilience throughout the knockout stages, coming from two goals down to defeat Egypt in the Round of 32 before producing a stunning late comeback to edge past England in the semi-finals.
However, it took an exceptional Spain side under Luis de la Fuente to finally end Argentina's reign, as La Roja outclassed the holders to reclaim the World Cup crown.
Otamendi recently returned to his homeland to join Argentine giants River Plate after bringing the curtain down on a successful career in Europe, where he enjoyed spells with Porto, Valencia, Manchester City and Benfica.
A stalwart of Argentina's golden generation, the veteran centre-back represented his country at four FIFA World Cups, cementing his legacy as one of the nation's most accomplished defenders.
— ANI
Reader Comments
A fitting end to a great career, though I feel for him after that final loss to Spain. Argentina's comeback against England in the semis was incredible – Messi magic! Otamendi will be remembered as a rock in defense. Best wishes for his River Plate stint.
Otamendi's commitment is undeniable, but I think he stayed a bit too long. That Spain side outclassed them, and his pace was suspect in the final. Still, a World Cup and two Copa Americas is a dream resume. He deserves the curtain call.
Salute to a warrior! 🫡 From Porto to City to Benfica, he's been a true pro. The way he talks about giving it all till the last second – that's the spirit we need in Indian football too. Arre yaar, if only our players had such hunger...
Respect for his longevity, but let's be real – he was never world-class. Lucky to be part of a golden generation. That England semi-final win? They almost blew it! Good riddance for Argentina's future, but a class act nonetheless.
As an Indian football fan, I'm envious of how Argentina produces such dedicated players. Otamendi's humility in defeat is remarkable – "not the result we wanted, but head held high." That's real sportsmanship. Jai Ho! 👏
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