Cristian Romero said former Manchester United full‑back Gary Neville was "stupid" for calling his centre‑back partnership with Lisandro Martinez "the best, worst". In the run‑up to Argentina's dramatic 2-1 World Cup semi‑final win over England, Neville lampooned the pair, who both received bookings in Atlanta’s feisty last‑four clash. They were key to limiting England to just two shots on target as the defending champions were forced to rally from behind for a late victory.

Both 28, Romero and Martinez have started all but one of Argentina's World Cup games this summer, helping Lionel Scaloni’s side reach its second successive final. Romero told DSports that when he retires he hopes he will not be that "stupid" – that he won’t criticise another player or anyone. He added that the team is simply doing its best for the national side, and that the significance of the shirt is immense.

Martinez echoed the sentiment, saying they are used to criticism and that they respond on the pitch with respect. The Argentine duo’s resilience and partnership have become a focal point of the tournament’s narrative.