Nicolás Otamendi also confronted Vinicius and showed him his tattoo of the trophies with the Argentine National Team: 'I won these'
Nicolás Otamendi celebrated his 101st UEFA Champions League match, solidifying his place as the third Argentine with the most appearances in the competition.
Nicolás Otamendi, an experienced Argentine footballer, recently surpassed 100 appearances in the UEFA Champions League, reaching a total of 101 matches. This milestone positions him as the third Argentine with the most games in the history of the tournament, trailing only Ángel Di María and Lionel Messi. Otamendi had a meeting with Vinicius, during which he showcased his tattoo symbolizing the trophies he has won with the Argentine National Team, stating confidently, 'I won these.' His notable contributions on the pitch are marked not only by his appearances but also by his robust defensive skills and leadership.
In the match against Real Madrid, where Benfica faced defeat, Otamendi played his 45th Champions League game for Benfica, adding to his earlier stints with Manchester City and Porto. His Champions League journey includes two goals, one scored during his time with Manchester City against Napoli and another for Benfica against Barcelona. As he recently turned 38, Otamendi remains a vital part of Lionel Scaloni's squad heading into the upcoming World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, showcasing his experience and reliability.
Despite the loss to Real Madrid, Otamendi's performance was commendable; he excelled in duels, winning all contested challenges and recovering five balls. His experience and tenacity continue to contribute positively to his team's defensive strategy as he looks to further his legacy in one of the most prestigious tournaments in club football. As he approaches the latter stages of his career, Otamendi's role as a mentor and leader on the field will be crucial for younger players in the squad preparing for an important international tournament ahead.