Messi praised the Tottenham midfielder as the best in the world
"Having Romero behind me is great for me. He always encourages me to attack high up, because Romero likes to go one-on-one with his opponent. Thanks to that, I'm used to not worrying about what's happening behind me and That's a good thing for an attacking player," Messi told Telemundo on September 11.
Messi scored the only goal from a free kick from the wall, helping Argentina win 1-0 against Ecuador in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup qualifying round in South America on September 8. Despite the struggles, this is a good start for the defending champion on the journey to defend the World Cup. Tomorrow morning, September 13, Hanoi time, Argentina will play the next match, away to Bolivia.
As usual, Messi was lifted into the clouds after scoring the decisive goal. However, the 36-year-old striker believes that the best player on the Argentina side is Romero. According to data from the Argentine Football Association (AFA), the midfielder playing for Tottenham leads in the number of ball recoveries (12), the number of successful duels (11), the number of tackles (7), and the number of tackles. Successful aerial combat (4) and passing accuracy rate (98%).
"I think Romero is currently the number one defender in the world. He is playing very well and was the best player in the win against Ecuador," Messi added about his teammate.
Romero's performance helped Argentina keep a clean sheet against Ecuador's dangerous counterattacks. However, according to Argentine media, the 25-year-old defender may be injured and is unlikely to participate in the Bolivia match.
In the next match, Argentina faces a challenge when they have to play at Estadio Hernando Siles, which is more than 3,600 meters above sea level. To help players adapt to the thin air here, AFA has equipped each team member with a personal oxygen tank. Some players like Nicolas Tagliafico or Sergio Romero took photos and showed off this device on social networks.
After moving to Inter Miami, Messi continuously shined. But along with that comes the loss of his physical strength. 10 years ago, when he was still in the prime of his career, Messi vomited while playing with Argentina in Bolivia. Therefore, the next match will be a big challenge for the 36-year-old striker if he plays.
