Argentina defenders Lisandro Martinez and Cristian Romero have responded to criticism from former England international Gary Neville following their country’s 2-1 comeback victory over England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final.
According to a report by Metro on Thursday, July 16, 2026, the reigning world champions booked their place in the final after recovering from a goal down in Atlanta.
England appeared on course to reach their first World Cup final since 1966 after Anthony Gordon gave Thomas Tuchel’s side the lead in the 55th minute. However, Argentina fought back through Enzo Fernandez’s equaliser before Lautaro Martinez scored the stoppage-time winner.
The reactions from Lisandro Martinez and Romero came in response to comments Neville made after Argentina’s 3-2 victory over Egypt in the Round of 16, when he described the centre-back pairing as “the best worst centre-halves in the world.”
During ITV’s World Cup coverage, Neville praised the duo’s determination and fighting spirit but questioned their defensive consistency.
“They give goals away constantly, but they don’t care about giving goals away because they’ll score goals at the other end,” Neville said.
After eliminating England, the two defenders addressed Neville’s remarks during a joint interview with Argentine broadcaster DSports.
Martinez said he and Romero have become accustomed to criticism and prefer to answer it with their performances on the pitch.
“We’re used to people always talking about us, it seems they just love talking about us,” Martinez said.
Romero offered a more direct response.
“The only thing I hope is that when I retire, I won’t be that stupid,” he said.
Argentina’s victory secured another World Cup final appearance as Lionel Scaloni’s side continued their bid to retain the trophy. Martinez and Romero anchored the defence throughout the semi-final, helping Argentina recover after falling behind to complete a dramatic comeback.
