Nightmare for Lionel Messi & Argentina! Key starter suspended for 2026 World Cup opener after red card tackle in qualifying loss to Ecuador

Argentina ended their 2026 World Cup qualifiers on a disappointing note as Enner Valencia's first-half penalty sealed a 1-0 win for Ecuador on Tuesday. The world champions were reduced to 10 men after Otamendi picked up a red card just past the half-hour mark for a poor challenge, which interrupted a clear goalscoring opportunity. 

The red card in the final round of the qualifiers means that Otamendi will be suspended for Argentina's 2026 World Cup opener. Chelsea star Moises Caicedo will miss Ecuador's first game at the tournament, too, as he was sent off early in the second half after picking up a second yellow card.

Messi travelled with the Argentina squad for the Ecuador clash but was not available to play. Lionel Scaloni granted the Inter Miami star a rest so that he can return to Florida in peak condition ahead of the club's MLS Cup bid. It is expected that Messi will grace the 2026 World Cup in North America before calling time on his international career.

Scaloni's side will play two friendly matches during the next international break in October against Venezuela and Puerto Rico.