Rodri poured scorn on Cape Verde’s tactical approach after Spain were held to a 0-0 draw in their World Cup opener, claiming the opposition ‘sat back’ and had no interest in ‘getting past the midfield’.
Cape Verde entered the Group H contest as massive underdogs, with 65 places separating the two teams in the FIFA rankings ahead of kick-off.
But the World Cup debutants – with a population of approximately 525,000 – produced an exceptional defensive display to come away from the clash with a thoroughly deserved point.
Ferran Torres struck against the crossbar with Spain’s standout opportunity, while veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, 40, produced a string of fine saves to ensure the scoreline remained goalless in Atlanta.
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While Luis de la Fuente threw on Lamine Yamal in pursuit of a breakthrough with 20 minutes remaining at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the African qualifiers held firm to secure the most famous results in the nation’s history.
There were jubilant scenes amongst Cape Verde’s players and travelling supporters as referee Adham Makhadmeh blew his whistle to signal full-time.
‘It wasn’t meant to be. There’s little to complain about,’ Spain and Manchester City midfielder Rodri told La 1 shortly after the final whistle.
‘We knew it was a game that required patience. They sat back and they dropped back very quickly. We couldn’t put it in. We created chances, but couldn’t finish.
‘The positive thing is that they barely created anything against us. We need to improve our finishing.’
On Cape Verde’s tactics, Rodri, Spain’s captain, said: ‘That’s how they play. They don’t get past midfield.
‘It’s a matter of improving our finishing.’
Cape Verde’s hero of the hour, Vozinha, was pictured in tears in the immediate aftermath, before being handed the official Player of the Match award for his outstanding contribution between the sticks against the reigning European champions.
‘It was a great match,’ he said.
‘We worked incredibly hard for this moment and this dream.
‘We are very proud. We knew it wasn’t going to be easy.’
The Chaves shot-stopper – who was winning his 90th cap – sent a clear message of intent to those who may have underestimated Cape Verde prior to this summer’s tournament.
‘We came to the World Cup to compete,’ he added.
‘I know there are people who think we are a small and weak team, but we are here to compete and give it our all.’
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