Nation’s media in awe of Tottenham star, makes it ‘impossible not to dream’

Follow us on Google Discover

Argentine media outlet Ole have handed Tottenham star Cristian Romero a rating of 9/10 for his performance during Argentina’s 3-0 World Cup semi-final win over Croatia on Tuesday night – saying he ‘makes it impossible’ not to dream.

Romero, 24, clocked up his fifth start in Argentina’s sixth game at the World Cup in Qatar. Lionel Messi turned it on, reminding everyone what he can do on the biggest stage. He produced one of the moments of the tournament.

Having already scored a penalty, Messi picked the ball up on the right flank and turned Croatia defender Josko Gvardiol inside out. Slowing down and speeding up, he found Julian Alvarez to net a second – and Argentina’s third.

But the win was never in danger and that is largely down to the organisation of Argentina’s defence. Starting with a back four, Romero and Argentina even changed to a back three – but they were solid throughout during the semi.

Romero was superb. In what was his 18th cap for Argentina, he was solid once again alongside Nicolas Otamendi – and then Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez, when the latter came on. Ole gave him 9/10, heaping praise on him.

“Firm to cut, with authority to play, he gave his all and won the majority of duels. Compliments Otamendi so well, and that relationship demoralised the Croatian strikers. He lost his head during a duel with Petkovic.

“He earned a yellow card. But, he recovered the high level that led him to be an undisputed player on this team. With defenders like that on your side, it’s impossible not to dream,” Argentine outlet Ole wrote, in a player ratings piece.

Argentine media hand Tottenham star Romero a rating of 9/10

He was superb. WhoScored report that he made five clearances – more than any other Argentina player. He made two blocks – more than any other Argentina player. He was nearly perfect, had he not picked up a yellow card.

Luckily for Romero, yellow cards are wiped when reaching the semi-finals – as to avoid suspensions for the final. So, Romero will be available and likely to start against either France or Morocco come Sunday evening. Superb display.