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Spain are into the 2026 FIFA World Cup final after a commanding 2-0 victory over France at Dallas Stadium on Tuesday, with La Roja captain Rodri orchestrating one of the tournament’s finest midfield performances.
The tie, hyped as a final before the final, delivered on occasion if not on drama, as Luis de la Fuente‘s men proved too composed, too structured and too relentless for Didier Deschamps‘ side.
Rodri was at the heart of it all, winning physical duels, recycling possession and frustrating France’s vaunted attack at every turn.
His ability to dominate the midfield battle – drawing in opponents and creating space for Fabián Ruiz and Dani Olmo – set the tone as Spain repeatedly carved passing triangles through France’s press.
The breakthrough arrived in the 22nd minute when Lamine Yamal stole the ball from Lucas Digne, who then compounded his error by fouling the teenager inside the box.
Mikel Oyarzabal dispatched the penalty with authority. Spain doubled their advantage on 58 minutes; Pedro Porro exchanging a sharp one-two with Olmo before finishing past Mike Maignan.
France’s attacking stars – Kylian Mbappé, Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembélé – were rendered largely anonymous, restricted to a paltry 0.3 xG.
Rayan Cherki, City’s exciting playmaker, came on in the 71st minute for Olise but could do little in his 19-minute cameo to alter France’s fortunes.
Spain await England or Argentina in Sunday’s final at MetLife Stadium.
Rodri match statistics vs France
90 Minutes Played
82 Touches
59 Accurate Passes
87% Pass Accuracy
7 Ground Duels Won
4 Tackles
4 Aerial Duels Won
100% Aerial Duel Success
3 Was Fouled
2 Recoveries
2 Clearances
2 Passes Into Final Third
1 Headed Clearance
Rayan Cherki Match Statistics vs Spain
18 Minutes played
23 Touches
13 Accurate Passes
72% Passing Accuracy
2 Ground Duels Won
1 Recovery
1 Pass Into Final Third
2 Successful Dribbles
1 Chance Created
Data courtesy of FotMob.
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Source: Cityxtra.co.uk
