Cristian Romero has hit back at Gary Nevilles criticism of Argentinas central defensive partnership with Lisandro Martinez, saying he hopes he is never that stupid when his own playing career comes to an end. Former England defender Neville described Romero and Martinez as the best, worst centre-half pairing in the world ahead of Argentinas 2-1 World Cup semi-final win over England in Atlanta.The pair both picked up yellow cards during Wednesdays heated encounter but also played key roles in limiting England to just two shots on target as Lionel Scalonis side booked their place in a second consecutive World Cup final.The only thing that I hope for is that when I retire, I am not that stupid, Romero told DSports when asked about Nevilles comments.Hopefully I wont criticise a player or anyone.Because at the end of the day, we are doing our best for our national team. Sometimes it goes right for us, sometimes badly, but we are just happy to be in a World Cup final again.I think we are making history, for us it is something really huge, and we feel the significance of this shirt like no-one else.Table of ContentsMartinez: We respond on the pitchNevilles best, worst verdictMartinez: We respond on the pitchManchester United defender Martinez also responded to the criticism, insisting Argentinas players prefer to answer their doubters through performances rather than words.Were used to people always talking about us, Martinez said.It seems like they like doing it, and we respond on the pitch, thats it, always with respect.Romero and Martinez, both 28, have started five of Argentinas six matches at the tournament and have become central figures in another impressive run to the final.The defending champions have kept two clean sheets in the matches the pair have started together, conceding six goals in total as they seek a fourth World Cup title.Nevilles best, worst verdictNeville made the comments during an appearance on The Overlap podcast before the semi-final clash.The former Manchester United and England full-back argued that Romero and Martinez combined moments of brilliance with costly mistakes.They seem to give a goal away between them every single game, Neville said.But you watch them, they are scoring goals, heading the ball, theyre literally everywhere its incredible.I call them the best, worst centre-half pairing in the world.Because they absolutely at times can be unbelievable, but the next, its the sublime to the ridiculous.Argentina will now face Spain in Sundays World Cup final as they attempt to retain the trophy they won in Qatar four years ago, while England take on France in Saturdays third-place play-off. Topics Argentina National Football Team Cristian Romero Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read UK Prime Minister Starmer wishes both teams well for the World Cup final, especially Spain after No 10 demand investigation into Argentina banner Jon Fisher 16th July, 2026 Tuchel to remain England boss despite limp World Cup exit Jon Fisher 16th July, 2026 This one is for you Diego! Messi dedicates Argentinas win over England to Maradona Jon Fisher 16th July, 2026 Tuchel claims no regrets after England vs Argentina World Cup defeat: I have to make a decision Ben Miller 16th July, 2026 England 1-2 Argentina: World Cup 2026 report, result, goals as Lionel Messi assists help holders reach final vs Spain Ben Miller 16th July, 2026 England v Argentina: World Cup 2026 text commentary, updates, goals and stats as it happened as Lionel Messi reaches final Jon Fisher 15th July, 2026
