Credit: Imago

Evan Lloyd

Sat 28 March 2026 10:05, UK

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Cristian Romero looked like the player Tottenham Hotspur fans fell in love with once again on Friday as Argentina narrowly beat Mauritania.

The World Cup holders narrowly won 2-1, with Enzo Fernandez and Nico Paz getting the goals in the first half.

Romero featured alongside Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi, with the pair only losing their clean sheet when Jordan Lefort scored in the fourth minute of stoppage time – a stunning moment for the team ranked 115th in the world by FIFA.

The Argentine has received huge criticism this season after being sent off twice and suspended for a crucial four-game run, during which his side lost all four.

If Romero can return to form ahead of Tottenham’s crucial run-in, however, he could well be key to any remaining chance of staying in the Premier League.

Cristian Romero superb vs Mauritania

Former scout Mick Brown exclusively told Football Insider on Tuesday that Tottenham are prepared to let Romero leave this summer amid a tumultuous season.

Off and on the pitch, the defender has been wrapped up in controversy, yet he remains among the most important players at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

On Friday, he showed exactly why, despite being potentially set for relegation at club level, he will start for Argentina at the World Cup.

The 27-year-old’s passing was incredible, misplacing just six of the 90 he attempted throughout his time on the pitch to tally a 93 per cent pass completion.

And defensively, Romero was superb. The Tottenham man won the majority of his duels and made five tackles.

It was a stellar performance from the defender, and one that will leave decision-makers in North London hopeful that he can impact the rest of the season.

Incoming Tottenham manager faces huge job

It would not be outrageous for anyone to suggest the possibility that Romero has downed tools at Tottenham.

The defender looked as if he would rather be anywhere else as his side were beaten 3-0 by Nottingham Forest last week, a damning indictment of a player meant to lead his teammates.

With interim manager Igor Tudor rumoured to be set to step away for the remaining seven games, the incoming manager will have a massive job on their hands.

Romero will be key to Tottenham’s chances of staying up, and he must be convinced that it is his legacy in North London on the line.