Cristian Romero Injury: Set to start vs. Cape Verde

Romero (knee) has returned to full training with the Argentina squad's starting group and is expected to start against Cape Verde barring any late setback, according to manager Lionel Scanloni, per TYC Sports. "In principle, it's fine. If he goes out to play, it's because he's available. He has done well, completed training and we will evaluate between today and tomorrow if he continues just as well."

Romero had been forced off during the second group stage match against Austria with knee discomfort and missed the subsequent fixture against Jordan, making his return to full training a significant boost for coach Lionel Scaloni heading into the round of 32. The center-back is expected to partner Lisandro Martinez at the heart of the Argentine defense, with Nicolas Otamendi set to drop to the bench as Scaloni restores his preferred defensive pairing for what promises to be a crucial knockout stage fixture against Cape Verde.