Spain captain Rodri says reaching the World Cup final is the result of years of progress and believes his side must play without fear when they face defending champions Argentina on Sunday.
Spain are preparing for only the second World Cup final in the nation’s history after building on their recent international success, having won the Nations League in 2023 and Euro 2024.
Rodri believes those achievements laid the foundations for the team’s current run and says Spain have grown stronger over the past five years.
“We’ve been gradually growing,” he said.
“We have to keep doing the same things we’re doing because it has been a process for all five years.”
Spain have impressed throughout the tournament, conceding just one goal in seven matches.
After opening with a surprise draw against Cape Verde, they have won six straight games, including a 2-0 semi-final win over France, while outscoring opponents 13-1.
“Our goal when we got to this World Cup was to win the trophy, and we were convinced that we could achieve this,” Rodri said.
“We’ve shown that this national team has been able to defeat great opponents.”
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Rodri: Spain can be unpredictable
Rodri rejected the suggestion that Spain only have one way of playing, insisting they can adapt to whatever challenge Argentina present.
“I don’t think you’ve seen the same Spain across all the matches,” he said.
“I think Sunday’s match will be quite different because it will be more physical and we must be prepared.
“If we are known for something in this national team, it’s that we know how to play different games based on the moment.
“We can adapt to defending, counter-attacking or attacking. We are a very complete team, and that is why we are here.”
Although Spain’s 2010 World Cup-winning side remains an inspiration, Rodri believes this group can still improve.
“We can even do it better,” he said.
“I think against France we played one of the best games we’ve ever played as a team. But against Argentina, we have to raise our level because they are the champions. I’m really confident that we can do it.”
Yamal ready for World Cup final
There had been concern over Lamine Yamal after the 19-year-old was seen in training with his left thigh heavily strapped following a knock against France.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente dismissed any fitness concerns ahead of the final.
“Today he trained with the rest of the squad and he is fine,” De la Fuente said.
“He is fine. He is in optimal condition.”
Yamal, who was famously photographed alongside Lionel Messi as a baby in 2007, has been tipped by many as the Argentine’s eventual successor, but De la Fuente wants the Barcelona winger to focus on being himself.
“Lamine has to be Lamine,” he said.
“Messi is a once-in-history player. He’s an example for young players because of his attitude and behaviour.
“I insist Lamine has to be Lamine Yamal himself. The best way we can support him is by helping him continue to be the person we know today because he has enormous potential and a great future.”
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