Spain midfielder Rodri praised his team’s collective display after a 2-0 victory over France sent La Roja into the World Cup final, saying composure and teamwork proved decisive against one of the tournament favourites.
Spain delivered their strongest performance of the competition in Dallas. Mikel Oyarzabal converted a first-half penalty before Player of the Match Pedro Porro sealed victory with a superb second-half finish.
“It was a collective effort from everyone. We did the best performance so far,” Rodri told Fox.
“What a team France are. They have strength in every area and they can punish you at any moment. Every single minute was key.”
The Manchester City midfielder refused to single out any individual and instead praised the entire squad.
“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,” he said.
Rodri said Spain’s patience made the difference against a side packed with attacking quality.
“You have to wait for your moments and not get carried away if they threaten you because they are a very good team,” he said.
“Composure is the key to this team.”
The midfielder also reflected on the significance of reaching only Spain’s third World Cup final.
“It means a lot. We have only been there twice in our history. It’s so difficult to arrive here, but we want to win this World Cup,” he added.
Spain’s victory also extended their unbeaten run to 37 matches, matching Italy’s record, and reinforced their status as favourites to lift the trophy.
Rodri, however, insisted the job remains unfinished.
“We need to rest, see what we can improve, and we can expect an even tougher game in the next one,” he said.
Spain will face either England or Argentina in the World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium, while France will meet the losing semi-finalist in the third-place play-off.
