Spain midfielder Rodri has publicly criticised Cape Verde's defensive tactics after the Euro 2024 champions were held to a goalless draw in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 fixture, claiming the African side rarely ventured beyond their own half.
Cape Verde, a nation of half a million people, frustrated one of the tournament favourites by sitting deep and defending resolutely throughout the match. At the final whistle, they celebrated the result as if they had claimed a famous victory — and few could argue the point.
Rodri's frustration
Speaking to La 1, Rodri acknowledged that Spain failed to convert the chances they created, but made clear he found Cape Verde's approach difficult to stomach.
