Footballers Richard Ríos and Nicolás Otamendi will go from exchanging insults in a heated Argentina vs. Colombia clash to becoming teammates at Benfica.

Just over a month ago, the two South American players were involved in a tense verbal exchange during the CONMEBOL qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup.

What did Richard Ríos and Nicolás Otamendi say to each other?

Colombian midfielder Richard Ríos shouted at Argentine defender Nicolás Otamendi, “You’re old, you can’t even run anymore,” during the match played on June 10, 2025, in Buenos Aires, as part of Matchday 16 of the South American qualifiers, which ended in a 1–1 draw.

From rivals to teammates at Benfica

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano on X:

“Richard Ríos to Benfica, here we go! Deal reached with Palmeiras after the player gave the green light. Benfica director Rui Pedro Braz finalized the agreement during a mission in Brazil. The price tag was met and the payment will be made in three installments. Ríos will fly to Lisbon next week for medical tests.”

A new chapter in Lisbon

Fate has clearly brought these two players back together, this time as potential teammates at Benfica. For the sake of their careers and the team’s success, they will need to put the past behind them and start fresh.

Otherwise, their time together in Lisbon might not be as smooth as expected.