Cristian Romero helped Argentina keep a clean sheet against Poland on Wednesday evening and reach the last 16 of the World Cup as Group C winners – prompting Dejan Kulusevski and Sergio Reguilon to praise the Tottenham man.
Romero, 24, was reinstated into Argentina’s starting line-up against Poland. He started against Saudi Arabia but was replaced on the hour mark. Then, in a 2-0 win over Mexico, Romero was benched – coming on as a sub for 20 minutes.
He started against Poland. The Polish hardly put up a fight, as they looked to qualify for the last 16 on goal difference. They looked to reduce Argentina as much as possible but ultimately, Argentina could have won by four or five.
Alexis MacAllister and Julian Alvarez got the goals. Lionel Messi missed a penalty and a golden chance in the second half to score. An easy night for Romero. Poland qualified by the skin of their teeth. Romero posted on Instagram.
His post is translated as saying: “Proud of this team, to death with this band. All together, LET’S GO ARGENTINA.”
Kulusevski and Reguilon praise Tottenham man Romero as Argentina win
WhoScored say Romero won three headers, more than any other player on the pitch – other than Enzo Fernandez. He made three clearances, more than any of his Argentina teammates. He completed 70 of his 78 passes for Argentina.
Argentina will now take on Australia in the last 16, a match they should win comfortably. The Socceroos have surprised many to qualify for the knockout stages, having beaten both Tunisia and Denmark – 1-0 on both occasions.
Romero is likely to retain his starting spot – as he continues to show why he deserves to start over Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez. Reacting to his post, Kulusevski and Reguilon commented – praising their Tottenham teammate.
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