Spain's midfielder Rodri faced sharp media criticism after their opening 0-0 draw against Cape Verde on June 18, but he stayed confident throughout, shrugging off doubts about his impact on the pitch.
The Manchester City star turned critics into admirers with a commanding performance in the July 14 semi-final, where Spain thrashed France 2-0. His influence was undeniable, earning glowing reviews with scores as high as 10 from various outlets.
From Early Doubts to a Star Role
After Spain's slow start in the tournament, many pointed fingers at Rodri, accusing him of slowing down the team's rhythm. However, Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente defended his captain, calling the criticism unfair and emphasizing Rodri’s vital role, recalling his key contributions during Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph.
Against France, Rodri dominated the midfield battle with an outstanding pass completion rate and winning key duels, effectively disrupting the opponent’s game plan. His dominant display placed him at the center of Spain’s success, transforming the narrative around him.
Rodri acknowledged the pressure but said he remained "always confident," treating early criticisms as part of the competitive World Cup atmosphere. Now, with the final ahead, talks of him winning the Golden Ball have gained traction.
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