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Current world champions Argentina have received a sigh of relief ahead of their crucial World Cup knockout stage match. Reliable center-back Cristian Romero has finally returned to full training with the team after recovering from a knee injury.
If everything goes according to plan, the 28-year-old defender might feature in the starting lineup against the tournament’s surprise package, Cape Verde, in the Round of 16 match. The Albiceleste will face Cape Verde next Saturday (July 4) at 4 AM Bangladesh time. Romero’s return before this important knockout clash is undoubtedly a major relief for coach Lionel Scaloni. If fully fit, he will take charge of Argentina’s defense from the start.
Romero was forced to leave the field in the 57th minute of the group stage match against Austria due to a knee injury. Due to that injury, he had to spend the final group match against Jordan on the bench. In his absence, Scaloni played experienced Nicolas Otamendi in defense. However, Argentina did not lose their rhythm, defeating Jordan 3-1, maintaining a perfect winning record and securing their spot in the knockout stage as group champions.
Now, with Romero’s return, Argentina’s defense is expected to become even stronger. The presence of this experienced defender will also boost the team’s confidence for the tough knockout challenges.
After the Jordan match, Scaloni had expressed optimism that he would have Romero back before the knockout stage. The coach’s hope has now materialized. On Monday (June 29), after a day of rest in Kansas City, Romero joined the team’s full training. He was seen in his familiar rhythm during practice, which is strong evidence of his rapid recovery.