Argentina defender Nicolas Otamendi sounded a note of caution ahead of the reigning world champion's opening FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture, warning that his side cannot afford a repeat of the Qatar 2022 shock as they prepare to face Algeria at Kansas City Stadium on Tuesday. Speaking at a pre-match press conference on Monday, 16 June, the veteran centre-back stressed that humility and hard work — not the weight of the champion's badge — will determine Argentina's fate in Group J.

Otamendi's Warning to the Champions

Otamendi, 38, appearing at his fourth World Cup, drew directly on the memory of Argentina's 2-1 defeat to Saudi Arabia that ended a 36-match unbeaten run at the start of the last tournament. 'As for the opponent, we have the example of the start in Qatar. We know that any team is going to make it difficult for you,' he said. 'We have to play our game, have good players.'

The centre-back made clear that the squad has absorbed that lesson. 'We have to be humble and work hard to face this kind of competition. We're in good shape and we're giving it our all because we know everyone will want to beat us,' he added.

A Fourth World Cup — and Likely the Last

Otamendi also reflected on the personal significance of the tournament, confirming this would be his final World Cup appearance with the national team. 'I'm enjoying these moments because this will be my last World Cup with the national team. I'm enjoying the competition, the day-to-day, my teammates. This is my fourth World Cup, and it's wonderful to represent my country,' he said.

The defender, who has been a cornerstone of Argentina's backline through their 2021 Copa América triumph and the 2022 World Cup title, arrives in the United States as one of the most decorated players in the squad.

Preparations Began in Buenos Aires

Otamendi revealed that the squad's preparations started well before their assembly in the United States, with work beginning back in Buenos Aires. 'We have been preparing since Buenos Aires, and arriving here with the new players, we are giving our best because we know we are the champion. Everyone is going to want to beat us,' he said. 'So we have to make a preparation that is not different. We have to give our all and I think the energies are good.'

Arriving as both world and continental champion, Argentina carry the heaviest target on their backs of any team in the tournament. Otamendi acknowledged that being considered a favourite counts for little once a match kicks off.

Argentina's Group J Schedule

After their opening clash against Algeria at Kansas City Stadium on Tuesday, Argentina will face Austria and Jordan in Dallas to complete their Group J campaign. The path out of the group is far from guaranteed — Algeria, though ranked lower, carry the capacity to spring surprises, as the Saudi Arabia result four years ago demonstrated. How Argentina navigate these opening matches will set the tone for their entire title defence.