Argentina is set for their final match in the CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup Qualifiers against Ecuador. However, the team will be without Lionel Messi. With the absence of the Inter Miami star, a new captain has been appointed. Decisions regarding who will wear the iconic No. 10 jersey are also being made.
During a recent press conference, coach Lionel Scaloni praised Nicolas Otamendi, who will play his last World Cup Qualifiers match. He emphasized Otamendi’s dedication, stating, “He’s one of the players who has supported us greatly. He played injured, against his club’s advice, which speaks volumes. He’s essential for us and will be the captain against Ecuador.”
Despite the presence of younger players, Nicolas Otamendi stands as a key figure in Argentina’s recent achievements. As a dominant center-back, he showcases both strength and composure, serving as a vital locker-room leader. At 37, his appointment as captain for this important match highlights his significant role.
With Lionel Messi unavailable, there is speculation about who will wear the No. 10 jersey. While an official announcement is yet to come, ESPN’s Leandro Alves reports that Thiago Almada will don the iconic number in the match against Ecuador. This does not make him the official successor, as other players have also worn the No. 10 jersey while Messi continues to play for the national team.
Nicolas Otamendi and Thiago Almada playing for Argentina.
Argentina’s coach Lionel Scaloni shares key details before the final 2026 World Cup qualifier against Ecuador
Argentina has shown strong performance in their 2026 World Cup qualifiers, securing a spot by Matchday 14. Despite this success, Scaloni has consistently leaned on a core group of players, making adjustments as needed. As they prepare to meet Ecuador, Scaloni has revealed important details about his lineup.
“We’re up against a team that has been performing well. First with (Gustavo) Alfaro and now with Sebastián (Beccacece). It’s one of the top teams globally with several strong players. It’s a good challenge. There will be two definite changes, and more adjustments can still happen. We want to evaluate other players,” Scaloni mentioned during the press conference.
Scaloni will miss not only Lionel Messi but also Cristian Romero due to accumulated yellow cards. This opens the door for players like Nicolas Paz, Exequiel Palacios, and Giuliano Simeone to take the stage against Ecuador. Such changes might indicate Argentina’s broader approach for the year: a focus on quality rotation, suggesting some players may see more action leading up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.