Listen to the article: audio text automatically generated by an automated system

0:00

2 minutes to read

Cristian Romero responded to Gary Neville's criticism after Argentina's 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup semi-final, which helped Argentina reach the World Cup final for the second consecutive time.

Before the match, Neville criticized Argentina's center-back duo of Romero and Lisandro Martinez, describing them as "the best and worst center-back duo in the world."

After the victory, Romero replied: "The only thing I hope is that I am not that stupid when I retire. I hope I don't criticize a player or anyone else. Because at the end of the day, we give our best for our national team. Sometimes we succeed, sometimes we don't, but we are just happy to reach the World Cup final again."

He added: "I think we are making history. For us, this is truly great, and we feel the value of this shirt like no one else."

Lisandro Martinez also responded to the criticism: "We are used to people constantly talking about us. They seem to enjoy doing it, and we respond on the pitch, that's all, always with respect."

Before the semi-final, Neville also said about Argentina's defenders: "It seems they cause a goal to be conceded in every match. But when you watch them with Argentina, they score goals, head the ball, they are literally everywhere – it's incredible."

Neville concluded: "I call them the best and worst center-back duo in the world. Because sometimes they are absolutely amazing, and the next moment, they go from brilliance to absurdity."

Romero and Martinez have been Argentina's primary center-back duo throughout the tournament, starting in all World Cup matches except one. Argentina's victory over England secured a place in the World Cup final against Spain.

Advertorial

Advertorial

Also read

Argentines provoke England with 'Las Malvinas' sign. Giovani Lo Celso, Argentina player, carried a banner that read 'Las Malvinas are Argentine' after... Sports

Video: Messi's wife breaks down in tears after Argentina's win over England. Antonela Roccuzzo, wife of Lionel Messi, burst into tears after Lautaro Martinez scored the winning goal... Sports

Two-match suspension and heavy fines threaten Argentina players over political banner. Included in Argentina players' celebrations after their 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup semi-final... Sports