ARLINGTON, Texas - Spain's midfield maestro Rodri produced a dominant performance against France on Tuesday, guiding his team to a 2-0 victory and a place in the World Cup final. It was a display reminiscent of the form that saw him go 74 matches unbeaten with Manchester City.
The 30-year-old, fully recovered from a serious knee injury, was the cornerstone of Spain's tactical plan. He formed a formidable defensive unit with center-backs Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsi, completely shutting down France's vaunted attack of Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, and Michael Olise.
The Spanish defense was so effective that goalkeeper Unai Simon did not have to make a single save. Rodri's precise passing and tireless work rate, covering over 12.5 kilometers, controlled the tempo and kept France on the back foot throughout the match.
"Step by step, one step further," Rodri said after the win. "The team is elated. It's the second time we've reached a final, and we need to stay calm and get some rest."
Spain, which last reached the final in 2010 when it won the title, will now await its opponent for the championship match.