One Tottenham star delivered a strong performance for his country on Friday.
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Tottenham star Cristian Romero was in action on Friday when he helped Argentina come out on top against Venezuela in their World Cup qualifier. Argentina are top of the standings in the South American qualifiers, which work as one giant table.
Lionel Scaloni’s men have won 12 of their 17 games, including the 3-0 win over Venezuela that saw veteran superstar Lionel Messi score twice, while Lautaro Martinez also found the net.
Romero played 90 minutes at centre-back and kept former West Brom star Solomon Rondón quiet, earning praise for his performance. In their player ratings, El Dia reported: “ CRISTIAN ROMERO (7) Firm in his position and neat with the ball, above all with his play out from the back. He was aware to all of the Venezuela attacks and was impassable.”
Elsewhere, Bola VIP reasoned: “ Cristian Romero (6): Although he resorted to rough play on more than one occasion, he was once again the pilar in the last line of Lionel Scaloni’s defence. He was the leader with a heavy weight against Salomon Rondón and he almost never has problems.”
Argentina boss Scaloni said after the win: “The team showed consistency, which is a positive aspect we have. We show character in any situation. The connection with the fans is incredible; I feel the same way they do.
"The players showed that, even when they win, they want more and get frustrated when something doesn't go well. This is also part of growth. The team has clearly evolved in recent years. It's important to give young players a chance, as they bring freshness, which is part of the team's growth.
"The World Cup is still a long way off; our goal is to arrive in the best possible shape. We're happy to be here. I'm not someone who looks back too much; you always have to look forward. After the first goal, the team played more calmly, and overall, I'm satisfied.”
Romero the Tottenham captain
Romero was heavily linked with a move away from Tottenham going into the summer, but Thomas Frank convinced him of his importance at Spurs, and with actions as well as words, making the Argentine his new captain. Frank explained in the summer: "I had a good conversation with Cuti Romero, and he’s going to be our captain.
"He was very honoured and very happy about it. It’s a big thing and should be to lead this wonderful club out on the pitch, not just for this Super Cup, but also throughout the season. I think he has all the right qualities. He leads from his behaviour on the pitch, driving the team forward in every way, and outside the pitch he’s always pushing the team.
"I want a leadership group as well. Of course, one will wear the armband and be the captain, but I would like to have as many leaders as possible, four to five in the leadership group who can help, because it’s the same with me, I can’t do everything on my own and need a superb coaching staff around me. I will name that leadership group after the window to give me time to assess everything."