Spain captain Rodri has insisted his side must be more eager to win than afraid of losing when they face Argentina in the World Cup final at the MetLife Stadium on Sunday. The Manchester City midfielder made the remark in a press conference at the Javits Center in Manhattan, New York, contrasting Spain's mentality with that of England, who were eliminated earlier in the tournament.
Rodri said: "It's going to be the perfect test to determine if we're capable of lifting this World Cup against the most in-form opponent. I already said that we have to be more eager to win than afraid of losing. And that's what we'll do."
Rodri's Tribute to Argentina and Messi
Rodri paid tribute to Argentina great Lionel Messi, but stressed that the reigning champions are more than just their 39-year-old captain, who has scored eight goals and provided four assists at the tournament. "Argentina is much more than Messi; they have proven to be a very complete team. We are the two teams that play the best collectively," Rodri said.
He added: "The achievement of reaching two World Cup finals speaks to a process, to growth, to performance, to being the most in-form team and the one to beat. It's a great accomplishment. I think Sunday's match will be different, more of a duel, more physical."
Yamal Fit for Final
Spain boss Luis de la Fuente confirmed that star winger Lamine Yamal will be fit to face Argentina. The Barcelona teenager missed full team training on Thursday with a bandage on his left thigh after taking a knock during the penalty incident in the semi-final against France. However, he returned to train with his teammates on Friday.
De la Fuente said: "He took a hard knock during the penalty incident. He had a slight discomfort and yesterday we preferred that he rest. Today he trained with all his teammates and they are all available. Lamine needs to be himself, the player we've always known, because he has incredible potential."
De la Fuente also dismissed comparisons between Yamal and Messi, stating: "Lamine has to be Lamine, Messi is one of a time in history player, he is an example and role model for youth and young players with his titles and behaviour at his age, particularly in this competition."
Spain's Path to the Final
Luis de la Fuente's side secured a 2-0 victory over France in their World Cup semi-final in Dallas, setting up a showdown with Argentina, who edged past their semi-final opponents in a dramatic penalty shootout. Spain will be looking to add a second star to their crest, while Argentina aim to defend their title.
