Spain captain Rodri has confidently declared that his country’s midfield is the best in the world ahead of a blockbuster FIFA World Cup Round of 16 showdown against Portugal, while acknowledging that their neighbours possess one of the strongest squads in their history.
The Iberian rivals will face off in Dallas on Monday, with Spain’s midfield trio of Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, Pedri and Dani Olmo set to battle Portugal’s talented combination of Vitinha, João Neves and Bruno Fernandes. The meeting comes just over a year after Portugal defeated Spain on penalties following a 2-2 draw in the 2025 UEFA Nations League final.
Speaking before training at the Cotton Bowl Stadium, Rodri praised Portugal’s quality but remained convinced that Spain holds the edge in midfield.
“They have one of the best generations they’ve ever had,” Rodri said. “They are full of world-class players and work very well as a team. But for me, the best midfield belongs to Spain. We hope to prove that on the pitch.”
Spain have enjoyed an impressive World Cup campaign so far, keeping clean sheets in every match and cruising to a 3-0 victory over Austria in the previous round. Rodri believes his side is peaking at the perfect time as the knockout stage begins.
The Manchester City midfielder, who has battled injuries since winning the 2024 Ballon d’Or, said he is steadily returning to full fitness and feels ready for the tournament’s biggest challenges.
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente echoed his captain’s confidence, insisting his players are the finest in the world despite Portugal’s outstanding quality. He expects a closely contested encounter between two teams that are comfortable in possession and quick to recover the ball.
With both nations boasting elite midfield talent, Monday’s clash promises to be one of the standout matches of the World Cup knockout stage.
