Rodri isn't holding back, oozing confidence ahead of Spain's World Cup semifinal with France in Dallas. The Manchester City midfielder is convinced La Roja has what it takes to punch their ticket to their first global final since 2010.
Spain's Blueprint to Take Down Les Bleus
Facing one of the tournament favorites at AT&T Stadium, Rodri couldn't be less intimidated, building his confidence on a history of Spain getting the better of Didier Deschamps' squad. The Ballon d'Or winner pointed to previous wins over France, proving Spain belongs on this stage. "France are one of the best teams here, in great form, but so are Spain. We can beat them, we’ve seen that at the Euros and in the Nations League," he declared.
He was right there for the 2015 Under-19 Euros semi-final, the Euro 2024 semi-final, and last summer's Nations League triumph. This consistency, Rodri explained, comes from his long-time coach. "Luis de la Fuente hasn’t changed at all," he said. "That’s where he began to build everything we see now." While some might be hoping for another wild 5-4 thriller like last year, Rodri sees a different kind of game brewing. "World Cup matches are a different beast; I don’t think it will be anywhere near as open," he noted, expecting a much tighter affair.
Calming The Storm Around Yamal, France Responds
A huge piece of Spain's attack relies on 19-year-old Lamine Yamal, but Rodri, ever the leader, is urging his young teammate to find some chill amidst the pressure. "I think he needs to calm down a bit, that anxiety that sometimes he has to prove himself," Rodri admitted. "He's a very important player for us because of what he does with and without the ball, and he's a very intelligent guy. It's true that he's 19 years old and that we have to calm him down at certain moments of the game." Even with a lack of goals this tournament, the leadership has his back. Rodri called Yamal a "role model" who "listens, who always wants to learn."
The French camp has heard the Spanish confidence. Real Madrid's new defender Ibrahima Konate confirmed Les Bleus are keeping it humble, blocking out any noise that says they should be scared. France wants to avenge their Euro 2024 exit, but they aren't dumb enough to just focus on Yamal when Spain's got talent everywhere. Rodri is well aware of France's strengths beyond just their attack. "France have great attacking qualities, but I’d also highlight their defensive strength," he said. "They defend well in a low block, they’re very physical, very aggressive. We’ll have to take the game to where we want it."
This World Cup semifinal is set to be an absolute battle. Rodri's vision is clear: Spain can beat France. Now it's all about putting that belief into action and making it to the final.
This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.