Historically! Rodri broke a 60-year-old record to become the first ever FIFA World Cup player to…

Spain midfielder Rodri etched his name into FIFA World Cup history with a record performance against France to help La Roja secure a 2-0 victory and a place in the 2026 World Cup finals. According to data platform OptaJoe, the midfielder completed a whopping 655 passes during the tournament, setting a new record for most passes by any player in a single edition of the World Cup since records began in 1966.The remarkable milestone underlines Rodri’s influence at the heart of Spain’s campaign, with the 30-year-old once again dictating the pace on the biggest stage after a long injury journey.Against France, Rodri produced one of his best performances since returning from a serious cruciate ligament injury he suffered playing for Manchester City against Arsenal almost two years ago. Calm in possession and tireless off the ball, he commanded 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 excited. It’s the second time we’ve made it to the finals and we have to stay calm and relax.”His commanding display was a reminder of the form that has made him one of the most dominant midfielders in world football and earned him the Ballon d’Or in 2024. Rodri has steadily edged closer to his best throughout the tournament, but his semi-final performance was an absolute masterclass in midfield.Rodri worked seamlessly with Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsi to help round out France’s star-studded frontline that included Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise. Spain’s defensive organization was so efficient that goalkeeper Unai Simon didn’t have to make a single save and Rodri repeatedly cut out attacks before they developed.His work on the ball was just as impressive. His precise passing kept Spain in check throughout the contest, often switching play to full-backs Marco Cucurella and Pedro Porro, covering more than 12.5 kilometers over the course of the match.Rodri reflected on Spain’s tactical approach: “Because of the characteristics of both teams, you knew one was more explosive and the other more possession-oriented. The support from the full-backs – from the whole team – was sensational.”Now, with the all-time record and Spain just one win away from World Cup glory, Rodri has proven once again why he remains one of football’s most influential players.