FIFA World Cup 2026: Rodri hails Spain's "collective effort" after securing WC final berth
Texas, July 15
Spain's Rodri hailed his side's collective performance after La Roja defeated France 2-0 to book a place in the FIFA World Cup final, saying composure and teamwork were the keys to overcoming one of the strongest teams in the tournament, according to The Athletic.
Speaking to Fox, as quoted by The Athletic, after the semifinal victory, Rodri praised every member of the squad for contributing to what he described as Spain's best display of the competition.
"It was a collective effort from everyone. We did the best performance so far. What a team (France). What strength they have in all the lines, they can punish you in every moment. Every single minute was key. I cannot say one player, everyone who played and everyone who came on did it. We showed the character we have in the team and how mature we are in big moments," Rodri said.
The midfielder said Spain's ability to remain calm under pressure proved decisive against a quality French side.
"To wait for your moments, to not get crazy if they punish you because they are a very good team. Composure is the key of this team. It means a lot; we have only been (to the World Cup final) twice in our history. It's so difficult to arrive here, but we want to win this World Cup," he added, as quoted by The Athletic.
Looking ahead to the final, Rodri said the team would focus on recovery and preparation for another difficult challenge.
"We need to rest, see what we can improve, and we can expect an even tougher game in the next one," he said.
Spain defeated France 2-0 in the FIFA World Cup semifinal at Dallas Stadium to book a place in the final. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Pedro Porro, who was named Player of the Match, sealed the victory with a second-half goal.
Spain will face either England or Argentina in the final at New York New Jersey Stadium. The win also extended Spain's unbeaten run to 37 matches, equalling Italy's record, while France will play in the third-place playoff.
— ANI
Reader Comments
I'm still in awe of that Oyarzabal penalty - cool as a cucumber! 😎 Reminds me of how our Indian cricket team handles pressure in big chases. Rodri's humility about the "collective effort" is refreshing. Too many players take individual credit these days. Hope Spain goes all the way!
Living in Bangalore and watching this match at a sports bar was electric! Rodri's leadership in midfield is world-class. But I must say, France looked sluggish - they missed Griezmann's creativity. Spain's 37-match unbeaten streak is absolutely incredible. Football is truly the beautiful game ❤️
As an Indian who grew up watching European football on satellite TV, this Spain team reminds me of the golden generation of 2010. But let's be honest - the final will be a different beast. England with Kane or Argentina with Messi? Both will test that "composure" Rodhi keeps talking about. Let's see how they handle real pressure!
I'm so happy for Spain! 🇪🇸 We Indians know something about "collective effort" - just look at our cricket team's recent successes. Rodri's quote about waiting for moments is so mature. France tried to bully them physically but Spain's tactical discipline was superior. Beautiful football from La Roja!
I appreciate Rodri's humility but I have a small criticism: Spain's possession game can sometimes become boring. Against France, they had 67% possession but only 3 shots on target. Against a top team in the final, that might not work. Still, credit where
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