Despite the negative result, Palacios showed commitment and was one of the most consistent players for the German team. Thus, Matchday 7 of the UEFA Champions League once again left an Argentine mark on various fronts: from the experience and leadership of Lautaro Martínez, to the goal-scoring emergence of Franco Mastantuono, and the defensive solidity of Cuti Romero, along with the performance of Exequiel Palacios. The Argentine midfielder was responsible for providing balance, distribution, and dynamism in the middle of the park, attempting to bring clarity to a team that could not impose its conditions away from home. Although Simone Inzaghi's team fell 3-1 and could not maintain the rhythm set by the English side, Lautaro was the one who insisted the most in the final third, fighting against opposing center-backs and pushing the team even when the result was already unfavorable. The great Argentine news of the round came from Real Madrid, where Franco Mastantuono had an unforgettable night in the 6-1 thrashing of Monaco. The Argentine defender was a leader at the back, firm in individual duels, and precise in building from the back. His presence was key to keeping a clean sheet and neutralizing the German attackers, confirming his status as a defensive leader and one of the most reliable defenders in the tournament. Meanwhile, Exequiel Palacios played a significant role in Bayer Leverkusen's midfield, which fell 2-0 to Olympiacos. In San Siro, Lautaro Martínez was once again the beacon for Inter, even in a difficult night for the Italian side. The Argentine captain was the axis of the attack and the main source of danger against Arsenal, showing mobility, sacrifice, and offensive leadership. With personality, presence in the box, and game reading, the Argentine capped off a solid performance from Carlo Ancelotti's side and sent a clear signal of his growth in European elite football. In London, Tottenham once again relied on the defensive hierarchy of Cristian 'Cuti' Romero, a key piece in the 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund. Four names, four different realities, but the same Argentine seal in the most demanding football competition in Europe.
