Nightmare for Lionel Messi & Argentina! Key starter suspended for 2026 World Cup opener after red card tackle in qualifying loss to Ecuador
Lionel Messi and Argentina have been dealt a major blow with Nicolas Otamendi now suspended for their 2026 World Cup opener after picking up a red card in their final qualifying match against Ecuador. The experienced defender was sent off for a reckless tackle in the 1-0 defeat, but Argentina still finished at the top of the CONMEBOL qualifying table.