Argentina Duo Romero, Martinez Hit Back at Gary Neville After World Cup Win Over England

Argentina defenders Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez have responded strongly to criticism from Manchester United legend Gary Neville following their country's 2-1 victory over England in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The reigning world champions secured their place in Sunday's final after coming from behind to defeat the Three Lions, with Lionel Messi providing assists for Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez.

Their latest victory also gave Romero and Martínez an opportunity to address Neville's recent remarks, in which the former England defender described them as "the best worst centre-halves in the world."

Neville made the comment after Argentina's dramatic 3-2 Round of 16 victory over Egypt, questioning the defensive partnership despite the team's progress in the tournament.

Speaking to DSports Argentina after eliminating England, Martínez insisted that criticism no longer distracts the pair.

"We are used to people always talking about us; it seems they just love talking about us," Martínez said.

"We don't really respond, we just let our play on the pitch do the talking, always with respect."

Romero was more direct in his response, taking aim at Neville's post-retirement criticism of players.

"The only thing I hope is that when I retire, I won't be that stupid.

"Hopefully, down the line, I won't go around criticising players or anyone else."

Argentina will now face Spain in Sunday's World Cup final as they seek to retain the trophy they won in Qatar four years ago.

Opinion

Neville's comments undoubtedly added fuel to the debate surrounding Argentina's defence, but Romero and Martínez have chosen the perfect way to respond—by continuing to win. While pundits are paid to analyse and criticise performances, players ultimately answer on the pitch. That said, Romero's personal jab at Neville may divide opinion. Competitive emotions often run high after major victories, but respectful disagreement usually carries more weight than personal attacks. Regardless, if Argentina lift the World Cup again, their defensive partnership will have the strongest possible argument against their critics.