Spanish midfielder Rodri has his name engraved on fifa world cup In the match against France, the team’s record-breaking performance helped the team defeat France 2-0 and advance to the 2026 World Cup finals. According to data platform OptaJoe, the midfielder completed a staggering 655 passes during this World Cup, setting a new record for the number of passes by a player in a single World Cup since records began in 1966.The remarkable milestone highlights Rodri’s influence at the heart of Spain’s squad, with the 30-year-old once again dictating the tempo of the game on the biggest stage after a long road back from injury.Against France, Rodri produced one of his best performances since returning from a serious cruciate ligament injury for Manchester City against Arsenal nearly two years ago. Calm with the ball and ruthless without it, he orchestrated Spain’s midfield while ensuring France’s dangerous attack never found its rhythm.“One step at a time, one step further,” Rodri said after Spain sealed their place in the final. “The team is happy. This is our second final and we need to stay calm and take a break.”His outstanding performance was a reminder of the form that has made him one of the most dominant midfielders in world football and earned him the 2024 Ballon d’Or. Rodri had been approaching his best throughout the tournament, but his performance in the semi-finals was a midfield masterclass.Rodri worked seamlessly with Aymeric Laporte and Paul Kubalsi to help shut down France’s star-studded frontline that included Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Aulis. Spain’s defensive organization was so effective that goalkeeper Unai Simon didn’t have to make any saves, while Rodri repeatedly denied attacks before they even started.Equally impressive is his ability with the ball. His precise passing kept Spain in control throughout the game, often switching play to full-backs Marc Cucurella and Pedro Polo, with more than 12.5 kilometers of passing coverage throughout the game.Reflecting on Spain’s tactical approach, Rodri said: “Given the characteristics of the two teams, you know one is more explosive and the other is more possessive. The support from the full-backs throughout the team was outstanding.”Now, with Spain just one win away from World Cup glory with a historic passing record, Rodri has once again proven why he remains one of the most influential players in football.
