Romero Calls Neville 'Stupid' Over Criticism of Argentina Defense
The Argentina defender pushed back on the former England international's critique of his center-back partnership with Lisandro Martinez.
Argentina defender Cristian Romero dismissed criticism from pundit Gary Neville this week, calling the former Manchester United and England full-back "stupid" for questioning his center-back partnership with Lisandro Martinez, BBC Sport reported.
Neville, now a prominent television analyst, had criticized the pairing's performances, prompting a sharp response from Romero as Argentina moved through the knockout stages of the World Cup. Romero defended the partnership, which has anchored Argentina's defense throughout the tournament as the team advanced to Saturday's final against Spain.
The exchange added a public sideline to Argentina's tournament run, with players increasingly willing to respond directly to television critics as the stakes rise. Romero and Martinez have started together at the back for much of Argentina's campaign, a pairing that has drawn mixed reviews from former players turned broadcasters even as the team has continued winning.
— Compiled from reporting by BBC Sport.