The underlying numbers from the Argentina versus Egypt clash show just how influential Tottenham Hotspur’s Cristian Romero was in the encounter.
Argentina came close to joining both Brazil and Portugal on their way out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup tournament in the last 16 when they faced Egypt.
The African side showed grit and determination for most of the clash and went two goals up with 15 minutes remaining.
However, a spirited Argentina side refused to stay down and clawed its way back from two goals down, turning the tie on its head and winning 3-2.
Tottenham’s Cristian Romero sparks Argentina fightback
At the heart of Argentina’s spirited performance was Tottenham’s Cristian Romero, who grabbed the first of Lionel Scaloni’s side’s three goals.
Romero rose highest in the 79th minute to head home a cross from Lionel Messi, showing great striker instinct to spark what would eventually become a comeback.
Messi then turned goalscorer himself, drawing Argentina level, before Enzo Fernandez sealed the win with a strike in the 90+2 minute.
The victory keeps Argentina’s World Cup hopes alive as they continue their title defence.
Romero’s numbers underline his impact for Spurs and Argentina
A closer look at Romero’s stats shows that his contribution to the World Champions’ latest victory was far more than just his goal.
Romero was handed an 8.1 FotMob rating, topped only by Messi (8.7), Leandro Paredes (8.2) and Fernandez (8.2).
The Spurs centre-back was the best defender on the pitch on the night, and his underlying numbers prove it. Romero played 89 minutes before being subbed off, but in that time he managed:
- Accurate passes: 60/64
- Goal: 1
- Touches: 75 (two in the opposition box)
- Passes into final third: 7
- Accurate long balls: 2/3 (67%)
Defensively, he showed his acumen with:
- Defensive contributions: 9
- Tackles: 3
- Clearances: 4
- Headed clearances: 4
- Interceptions: 2
- Recoveries: 7
In terms of duels, Romero also impressed:
- Ground duels won: 3/4 (75%)
- Aerial duels won: 4/7 (57%)