Argentina Concludes 2026 World Cup Qualifiers with Controversy and Reflections from Nicolás González

The Argentina national team, led by Lionel Scaloni, wrapped up its participation in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup with a controversial match at the Estadio Monumental in Guayaquil. After a 1-0 loss to Ecuador, Nicolás González spoke in the mixed zone, drawing attention with his comments about the home team’s exuberant celebrations.

Nicolás González Criticizes Ecuador’s Celebration

Despite the loss not affecting Argentina’s position at the top of the standings, the Atlético de Madrid forward expressed some frustration with the opponent:

“Here, the guys are happy, acting like they won the World Cup final,” González remarked, highlighting the visiting locker room’s perception of Ecuador’s euphoria.

The forward, who came through Argentinos Juniors, also emphasized his commitment to the team:

“I do my job, Leo knows it. I sacrifice for the team, for this national team, so I’m heading back to Madrid very happy.”

Acknowledgment of the Opponent and Focus on the Future

González praised Ecuador’s performance during the qualifiers:

“We knew it was a tough match. Ecuador has been doing great work for years. Today we lost, but we leave with our heads held high. In these qualifiers, we showed we’re on par with everyone.”

Regarding his potential participation in the World Cup:

“We’re leaving calmly, knowing we’ve put Argentina as high as possible. If I go to the World Cup, it’ll feel like a chance for redemption. There’s still a long way to go, so now I’m focusing on myself and Atlético.”

Adaptation to Atlético de Madrid and Personal Reflection

On his current situation in Spain, González commented:

“I’m thrilled with the club change, and I also enjoyed these days with this group in the national team because being here is something unique.”

The player also expressed gratitude to Scaloni and his new coach in Madrid:

“It makes me really happy to be valued like this by Scaloni. Now I can’t wait to work with Cholo over there.”

Wearing the Albiceleste jersey, González has played 45 matches, scoring 6 goals and providing 4 assists, and has won two Copa América titles and the Finalissima, though he missed the Qatar World Cup due to injury.

Argentina’s Upcoming Matches Before the 2026 World Cup

According to the AFA, the national team will embark on a tour of the United States from October 6 to 14, facing Venezuela in Miami and Puerto Rico in Chicago. Then, in November, they will travel to Luanda (Angola) and Kerala (India) for two more friendlies, with opponents yet to be confirmed.

In March 2026, Argentina could face Spain in the Finalissima, with the venue still to be determined (options include Montevideo, London, Qatar, or Saudi Arabia), and may add an additional friendly. Before the World Cup, two more friendlies are planned between June 1 and 9, with details still to be confirmed.

Changes in the FIFA Rankings

The loss to Ecuador also marked the end of Argentina’s uninterrupted run as the number one team in the FIFA rankings, a position they held since April 2023. According to the Elo system, Spain will take the top spot on September 17, followed by France, while Argentina will drop to third place. This ends a 14-month reign at the top of the world rankings and presents a new challenge for Scaloni and his team, who will still remain a top seed for the 2026 World Cup.