Spain star’s generational performance leaves commentator feeling privileged just to be there

If there was ever one player you would want playing for your team in a pressure match, Rodri would likely be that man.

And the Manchester City superstar played a major role in sending Spain through to the World Cup final in a virtuoso midfield performance on Tuesday night.

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In fact, his performance was so good that talkSPORT’s co-commentator at the game, Mark McGhee, was left in awe.

Rodri didn’t score any of the goals in La Roja’s 2-0 victory over Kylian Mbappe‘s France, but he certainly made an impact.

He seemed to be everywhere on the pitch in Texas, winning seven of 11 ground duels, all four of his aerial duels, making one tackle, two clearances and two ball recoveries.

On top of that defensive showing, the midfielder helped control possession for his nation, leading them to glory.

The performance is made even more impressive by the fact that he came into the tournament off the back of multiple injury issues that have followed his ACL rupture at the end of 2024.

He is even reportedly set to undergo surgery later this summer.

But Rodri has well and truly been back to his best at the World Cup, and McGhee was honoured to be in the presence of greatness.

The former Scotland assistant gave him Man of the Match and said on live commentary for talkSPORT: “I think I’ve seen one of the best performances from an individual player that I’ve ever seen anywhere.

“To do it in this environment, in a semi-final of the World Cup, to get your team to the World Cup final, I thought Rodri was absolutely magnificent.

“I saw a special, special performance today and I was so privileged to be here and see a player like him play as well.”

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Closing in on World Cup glory

Rodri, who was appointed as La Roja captain before the tournament, is now one win away from lifting the World Cup for Spain.

The 30-year-old has started every single game so far in North America, playing all but three minutes in total.

In his seven games, he’s made over 650 successful passes and recovered the ball 34 times, which equates to almost five a match.

He’s also averaging more than one key pass a game, while also winning 15 tackles as he mans the midfield.

And after leading his nation to victory against France, he’ll turn his attention to either England or Argentina in the final.

The showpiece will take place on Sunday, July 19 at 8pm UK time.

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Of course, Rodri will be starting and he’s sure to have a major impact on whether La Roja can win their second-ever World Cup.

They have not lifted the iconic trophy since their 2010 success.

talkSPORT will have live commentary of the final on Sunday.

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