Argentina Premier League star Cristian Romero launched a scathing attack on Gary Neville, branding the former Manchester United defender 'stupid' after England's heartbreaking 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat on Wednesday night.
Before the match, Neville had questioned the defensive capabilities of Romero and his centre-back partner Lisandro Martínez, calling them the 'best-worst' central defensive duo in the world. He stated: 'I do not see any way we won't score at least two goals against Argentina. I call them the best-worst central defensive duo in the world. They go from the sublime to the ridiculous... You've got Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez who seem to give away a goal between them per game. Then you see them again and it turns out they're scoring goals, winning all the headers and popping up everywhere.'
Romero's Fiery Response
However, Romero, who plays for Tottenham Hotspur, fired back after the match. Speaking to Latin American sports broadcaster DSports, he said: 'Neville? I hope when I retire he's not so stupid. Licha [Lisandro] and I were angry. In England they like to talk a lot before matches. We send them our best regards.'
The match ended in heartbreak for England, who took the lead in the first half and held it until the 85th minute. Argentina's Enzo Fernández scored a late equalizer, and six minutes later, Lautaro Martínez headed home the winner in injury time, securing Argentina's place in the final.
Controversy Over Falklands Banner
The tense game was further shrouded in controversy after Argentinian players displayed a banner reading 'Las Malvinas son Argentinas' (The Falkland Islands are Argentinian) on the pitch following the match. Business Secretary Peter Kyle condemned the demonstration, telling Sky News: 'Politics should stay away from football. That is a very clear principle of the World Cup, but any consequences that come from that is now a decision for FIFA.'
England's World Cup dreams were dashed once again, as they failed to reach the final despite a strong performance. Argentina will now face the winner of the other semi-final.
