Nicolás Otamendi scored for Benfica in a 2–2 draw away to Sporting Braga in the Primeira Liga. The Argentine center back opened the scoring in the 29th minute at the Estádio Municipal de Braga, rising inside the box to head home from a free kick delivery by Georgiy Sudakov and give his team the early lead.
The match later finished level, with the result leaving Benfica in third place in the standings with 36 points after 16 rounds. Leaders Porto (43 points) and second-placed Sporting Lisboa (38) could extend their advantage at the top by the end of the round. Sporting Braga remain fifth with 26 points, behind Gil Vicente, who have 27 despite a recent winless run.
Approaching his 38th birthday, Otamendi continues to be a regular contributor for Benfica. The World Cup winner with Argentina in Qatar 2022 has recorded four goals and four assists in 33 appearances across all competitions this season, including the Club World Cup. Since joining the club in 2020, the former Vélez, Porto, Atlético Mineiro, Valencia and Manchester City defender has surpassed 250 appearances and lifted four trophies, establishing himself as one of the leaders of the squad.
Otamendi is also the captain and a key figure for Benfica under head coach José Mourinho, who recently addressed speculation about the defender’s future amid reports linking him with Barcelona. “I have a great relationship with him. We haven’t spoken about any possible departure and there is nothing to worry about,” Mourinho said.
The coach has repeatedly highlighted Otamendi’s experience and influence. “He is a world champion and has a lot of experience,” Mourinho noted, adding: “One thing is real age and another is what we see on the pitch, even in training. There are 20-year-old players who are already veterans, and players of 38 or 40 who are young. Nico is young.” Mourinho has also expressed his desire for Otamendi to extend his contract, which expires at the end of the current season.
