Spain midfielder Rodri has acknowledged the scale of the challenge awaiting his team in the World Cup semi-final against France, describing Les Bleus as « one of the best teams here » and insisting that La Roja must be at their very best to progress. In a lengthy interview with British media outlet The Guardian, the Manchester City star offered a measured but confident assessment of Tuesday’s showdown, recognising the quality of the French squad while expressing belief in Spain’s ability to prevail.
Rodri, a key figure in Spain’s midfield, did not shy away from praising France’s strengths. « France is one of the best teams here, if not the best, » he said. « They have a very complete squad, with players who can decide a match at any moment. We know what we are up against, but we also know what we are capable of. » The 29-year-old stressed that Spain would need to be « perfect » in all phases of the game to overcome a French side that has impressed throughout the tournament.
The semi-final, scheduled for Tuesday 14 July, pits two of the tournament’s most accomplished teams against each other. France, the reigning world champions, have shown resilience and tactical discipline, while Spain have dazzled with their possession-based style and attacking fluidity. Rodri acknowledged that the match would likely be decided by fine margins. « In these matches, the details make the difference, » he said. « We have to be focused from the first minute to the last. »
Rodri’s comments come as both teams finalise their preparations for the high-stakes encounter. Spain’s squad has been buoyed by strong performances in the knockout stages, and the midfielder expressed confidence that his teammates can rise to the occasion. « We have a group that believes in what we are doing, » he said. « We have shown that we can compete against anyone. Now we have to prove it on the pitch. »
Meanwhile, the French camp has been focused on maintaining its usual composure ahead of the match. In a separate development, France’s goalkeeping coach Franck Raviot delivered an emotional speech to the squad on the eve of the semi-final, marking his 53rd birthday. According to reports from French media, Raviot, who is normally reserved, shared « very deep feelings » with the players, urging them to give everything for the shirt. The speech was well received by the squad and added an extra layer of motivation as Les Bleus prepare to face Spain.
The match represents a clash of footballing philosophies: France’s pragmatic, counter-attacking approach against Spain’s trademark possession game. Rodri, who has faced many of France’s key players in club competitions, said he expects a « very intense » battle. « They have players like Kylian Mbappé, who can change the game in an instant, » he noted. « We have to be very careful defensively, but we also have to impose our game. We cannot just defend. »
Spain’s path to the semi-finals has been marked by convincing victories, including a dominant performance in the quarter-finals. The team has scored freely and conceded few chances, building momentum at the right time. Rodri attributed this success to the collective effort and the tactical clarity provided by the coaching staff. « Everyone knows their role, and that makes us dangerous, » he said.
France, for their part, have shown an ability to win even when not at their best, grinding out results with defensive solidity and individual brilliance. Their experience in high-pressure matches could prove decisive, but Rodri believes Spain’s hunger and youth can level the playing field. « We are a young team, but we are not inexperienced, » he said. « We have players who have played in big matches for their clubs. We are ready. »
The winner of Tuesday’s semi-final will advance to the World Cup final, where they will face either Argentina or Portugal. For Rodri, the opportunity to play for a world title is a dream come true, but he insisted that the focus remains solely on the task at hand. « We are not thinking about the final, » he said. « We are thinking about France. That is the only match that matters. »
As the football world turns its attention to what promises to be a captivating semi-final, Rodri’s words reflect both respect for the opponent and quiet confidence in his own team. Spain will need to be at their best to overcome a French side that has dominated international football in recent years, but the midfielder’s message is clear: La Roja are not afraid.
