Nicolas Otamendi
ArgentinaDefenderBenficaNicolas Otamendi goes into World Cup 2026 as a defender who can steady the back line for Argentina. He brings 130 caps and 8 goals into the tournament. Benfica provides his recent club rhythm before the tournament. The focus is body shape, recovery runs, aerial work and decisions under pressure.
Group J
Jun 16, 2026vs Algeria - 8:00 PM CDT
Quick Facts
Nicolas Otamendi and Argentina World Cup 2026 Squad
Argentina selected Nicolas Otamendi for World Cup 2026 with a clear football task. As a defender, he can protect the channel, win first contact and keep clearances controlled.
Otamendi is part of a group of 8 defenders, so the opponent and match state can affect his minutes.
International Record
Nicolas Otamendi brings 130 caps and 8 goals into the tournament.
Otamendi's senior international timeline dates back to 2009, which gives the record more weight than a simple squad listing.
International Record
- International record: Nicolas Otamendi enters the tournament with 130 caps and 8 goals for Argentina.
- World Cup 2026 role: Argentina list Nicolas Otamendi as a defender, with minutes linked to form, workload and game state.
- Group opponents: Argentina face Algeria, Austria and Jordan in the group stage.
Argentina Senior Milestone
- International experience: 130 caps and 8 goals make this one of the stronger records in the squad.
Playing Style and Strengths
Otamendi's World Cup value starts with body shape, recovery runs, aerial work and decisions under pressure.
Otamendi's first pass out of defence can help the team breathe after a long spell without the ball.
- Duel timing
- Compact spacing
- Set-piece defending
- First pass out
- Cover runs
- Box protection
World Cup 2026 Fixtures
Argentina start against Algeria on 16 June 2026 in Kansas City. For Otamendi, the first match is a direct test of match rhythm and role clarity.
Austria follow on 22 June 2026 in Dallas. For Otamendi, the second fixture can quickly change the selection picture if the opener leaves Argentina chasing points or protecting workload.
| Kickoff | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Jun 16, 20268:00 PM CDT | AlgeriaAlgeria may defend deep, so first-time finishing matters. | Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City |
| Jun 22, 202612:00 PM CDT |  AustriaAustria can press higher, so runs behind the line matter. | Dallas Stadium, Dallas |
| Jun 27, 20269:00 PM CDT |  JordanJordan may protect the box, so rebound reactions matter. | Dallas Stadium, Dallas |
Dates and kickoff times above are shown in the venue timezone.
Recent Form
Nicolas Otamendi played 30 Liga Portugal matches for Benfica in 2025/26, scoring 2 goals and providing 0 assists.
Otamendi's latest checked appearance came on May 16, 2026, with 90 minutes in Estoril versus Benfica.
Career Stats
Nicolas Otamendi brings 130 caps and 8 goals into the tournament.
For Argentina, the numbers guide the selection picture, but they do not replace match readiness. The opener still has to fit Otamendi's form and the opponent's plan.
| Field | Verified value |
|---|---|
| Team | Argentina |
| Position | Defender |
| Club | Benfica |
| Caps | 130 |
| Goals | 8 |
| Born | 12 February 1988 |
World Cup 2026 Role
Nicolas Otamendi enters World Cup 2026 with Argentina as a defender. The senior record stands at 130 caps and 8 goals. Match role, form and group-stage needs will shape his minutes.
Argentina will judge him through training rhythm before the tournament. The useful signs are duel timing, spacing and the first pass forward.
Argentina start against Algeria on Jun 16, 2026 in Kansas City. Austria and Jordan come next in the group. The match order can affect workload and selection.
FAQ
Is Nicolas Otamendi in the Argentina World Cup 2026 squad?
Yes. Nicolas Otamendi is in Argentina's World Cup 2026 squad in the checked player data.
What position does Nicolas Otamendi play?
He is listed as a defender for Argentina.
How many international caps and goals does Nicolas Otamendi have?
He enters World Cup 2026 with 130 caps and 8 goals for Argentina.
Who are Argentina's World Cup 2026 group opponents?
Argentina face Algeria, Austria and Jordan in the group stage.
When is Nicolas Otamendi's first World Cup 2026 match?
Argentina start against Algeria on 16 June 2026 in Kansas City.
What is Nicolas Otamendi's latest club form?
He plays for Benfica in the checked player facts.
More Argentina World Cup 2026 Player Profiles
Explore more Argentina squad profiles, including teammates who can share minutes, supply service or affect the same match plan.
Group J Table
| # | Team | P | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Argentina | 3 | 7 | 9 |
| 2 | Austria | 3 | 0 | 4 |
| 3 | Algeria | 3 | -2 | 4 |
| 4 | Jordan | 3 | -5 | 0 |