Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that defender Cristian Romero aggravated a long-standing knee injury during Monday's 2-0 World Cup victory over Austria, casting doubt on his availability for the final group stage match against Jordan.
Romero's injury history and substitution
The Tottenham Hotspur centre-back, 28, has been managing a knee problem for two months and missed the last six Premier League games of the 2025-26 season. Despite this, he was deemed fit to travel to the World Cup and started Argentina's opening two matches. Romero played 80 minutes in the 3-0 win over Algeria but lasted only 57 minutes against Austria before being replaced by veteran Nicolas Otamendi, who at 38 continues to perform at the highest level.
Scaloni confirmed the substitution was injury-related but stressed it was not a new issue. 'We don't know the extent of Cuti Romero's issue; it's something he's been dealing with for a while now,' Scaloni said. 'We hope it's nothing serious. Not only because he's important, even though he can be replaced, but it's always important to have everyone available. He'll undergo tests tomorrow or the day after.'
Likely rest for Jordan clash
With Argentina already qualified for the round of 32 after two wins, it is improbable that Romero will be risked in the final group game against Jordan on Sunday. The combative defender will most likely be rested, with the hope of returning for the knockout stages if the knee issue has not been significantly worsened.
This fitness concern was the only negative on an otherwise positive day for Argentina, as Lionel Messi scored both goals to secure the victory. The 38-year-old Inter Miami forward has now scored all of Argentina's goals in the tournament, following a hat-trick in the 3-0 win over Algeria.
Messi's record-breaking performance
Messi entered the match tied with Germany's Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals, but his brace moved him clear at the top of the all-time list with 18 goals. He also scored his 121st and 122nd international goals for Argentina. Speaking after the match, Messi said: 'I'm very happy about the victory above all. It was crucial, tough and hard-fought, it gives us peace of mind for what's ahead. The important thing is the qualification, winning all the matches is always in our plans. This whole group lives this with a lot of happiness. When we get together, we enjoy being together, competing, training, the day-to-day, and seeing the people like this.'
It remains to be seen whether Messi will be rested against Jordan, given Argentina's secured progression and his record-setting performance.
