Top News

Cristian Romero has strongly responded to Gary Neville after Argentina’s elimination of England from the 2026 World Cup, branding the pundit’s pre-match criticism as “stupid.” The Tottenham Hotspur defender, alongside centre-back partner Lisandro Martinez, had the last laugh in Atlanta as Argentina booked their place in the final against Spain, silencing their harshest critics in the process.

Romero responds to Neville’s remarks

The former Manchester United defender had heavily criticised the Argentine pairing before the match, but Romero wasted no time in addressing the comments once the final whistle sounded in Atlanta.

“The only thing I hope for is that when I retire, I’m not that stupid. Hopefully, I won’t criticise a player or anyone,” Romero told DSports when asked about Neville’s remarks. “Because at the end of the day, we are doing our best for our national team. Sometimes things go well for us, sometimes they don’t, but we are just happy to be in another World Cup final.”

The ‘best worst’ partnership

Neville had earlier stirred debate on the Overlap Podcast by questioning the dependability of the Romero-Martinez combination. He stated: “They seem to give away a goal between them in almost every game. But you watch them — they’re scoring, heading, they’re literally everywhere — it’s incredible. I call them the best, worst centre-half pairing in the world. Because they can be absolutely outstanding at times, but the next moment it’s from the sublime to the ridiculous.”

Martinez also shared his thoughts, echoing Romero’s response to the constant scrutiny they face in the Premier League. “We’re used to people always talking about us. It seems they enjoy doing it, and we respond on the pitch, that’s it — always with respect,” explained the Manchester United defender as Argentina’s players celebrated yet another historic win.

Scaloni inspired by team’s resilience

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni was visibly emotional after witnessing his side overturn a second-half strike from Anthony Gordon, with goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez sealing the win. Scaloni dismissed any notion of arrogance, instead highlighting the unity and resolve that define his squad when they are under pressure.

“My voice is breaking because this is a demonstration of so many things — team spirit, brotherhood, never giving up, fighting till the very end. After this, we’re going to win the final, but what more can this team do? They’ve moved me deeply. I don’t have much more to say; it’s all thanks to them,” Scaloni said during his post-match press conference.

History awaits in New York

Argentina’s victory sets up a thrilling final against Spain as they aim to defend their title and capture a fourth World Cup crown. Romero’s fiery temperament was evident throughout the semi-final — celebrating provocatively in front of Jordan Pickford and later locking eyes with Jude Bellingham at full-time — perfectly embodying the fighting spirit Scaloni praised.

“I think we are making history. For us, it’s something truly enormous, and we feel the weight and pride of this jersey like no one else,” Romero concluded. The Albiceleste now head to New Jersey for Sunday’s final, while a dejected England will face France in the third-place play-off following yet another World Cup heartbreak.