The Spanish midfielder described the semi-final victory as the team’s best performance of the tournament, highlighting the contribution of every player involved in the historic win. Spain produced a disciplined display at Dallas Stadium, neutralising France’s attacking threats while making the most of their opportunities.
Rodri highlights Spain’s complete team performance
Speaking after the semi-final victory, Rodri praised the entire squad for delivering under pressure against one of the strongest teams in the competition.
“It was a collective effort from everyone. We did the best performance so far,” Rodri said, as quoted by The Athletic.
The Spain captain acknowledged France’s quality across the pitch and admitted that the match required maximum concentration from the opening whistle until the final moments.
“What a team France are. What strength they have in all the lines, they can punish you in every moment. Every single minute was key,” he added.
Rodri insisted that the victory could not be credited to one individual, instead emphasising the importance of the entire squad, including substitutes who made an impact during the match.
“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.
Composure helps Spain overcome France challenge
Spain’s ability to control emotions and remain patient was one of the key factors behind their victory. Despite France possessing world-class attacking players, Spain refused to panic and maintained their tactical discipline throughout the contest.
Rodri explained that staying calm during difficult periods has become one of Spain’s biggest strengths.
“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,” he said.
The midfielder also reflected on the significance of reaching another World Cup final, noting how difficult the achievement is in international football.
“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,” Rodri added.
Spain previously reached the World Cup final in 2010, when they defeated the Netherlands to lift their first-ever title.
Spain’s unbeaten run continues
The victory over France extended Spain’s unbeaten run to 37 matches, matching Italy’s international record. The achievement underlines the consistency and strength of the Spanish side under their current management.
Spain have combined possession-based football with improved defensive organisation during the tournament. Their ability to compete against physically strong opponents while maintaining their attacking identity has made them one of the standout teams of the competition.
Against France, Spain controlled key phases of the game and prevented players such as Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele from creating significant opportunities.
Oyarzabal and Porro seal historic victory
Spain took the lead through Mikel Oyarzabal, who converted from the penalty spot to put his team ahead.
Pedro Porro then delivered the decisive moment by scoring the second goal in the second half. Porro’s performance earned him the Player of the Match award after an impressive all-round display.
The victory secured Spain’s place in the World Cup final, where they will face either England or Argentina at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
Focus turns towards final challenge
Although Spain celebrated a major achievement, Rodri made it clear that the team’s work is not finished. The midfielder said recovery and preparation would be crucial ahead of the final.
“We need to rest, see what we can improve, and we can expect an even tougher game in the next one,” Rodri said.
The Spanish squad will now focus on maintaining their physical condition and preparing for another high-pressure encounter as they aim to win their second World Cup title.
France, meanwhile, will compete in the third-place playoff after their hopes of reaching another final were ended by Spain.
Conclusion
Rodri’s comments reflected Spain’s biggest strength during their World Cup 2026 campaign — unity. With every player contributing and the team showing remarkable composure against France, La Roja have moved one step closer to another historic triumph.