Overview
- The Argentine Football Association said it has asked the FIFA Bureau for an exceptional amnesty that would let Nicolás Otamendi play the first match, with a ruling still pending.
- Under FIFA rules, his red card in September 2025 qualifying would otherwise carry into the June 16 opener against Algeria in Kansas City.
- The filing also includes Ecuador’s Moisés Caicedo and notes support from CONMEBOL president Alejandro Domínguez.
- Cristian Romero is reported to be on track to return from a knee sprain in time for Argentina’s June friendlies.
- Lionel Messi said Argentina will compete but named France, Spain, Brazil, Germany, England and Portugal as stronger favorites right now.