Spain midfielder Rodri has taken aim at FIFA over the standard of officiating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after his side secured a place in the final with a commanding 2-0 victory over France. The Manchester City star voiced his frustration after teenage sensation Lamine Yamal was repeatedly brought down by robust challenges during the semi-final without receiving sufficient protection from the match officials.
Spain's victory booked them a place in Sunday's World Cup final, but Rodri admitted the team's celebrations were tempered by concerns over the refereeing throughout the tournament.
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Rodri criticises referees over treatment of Lamine Yamal
Speaking after the semi-final, Rodri claimed Spain have been facing the same issue over the past three matches, insisting referees have allowed too many fouls on Yamal to go unpunished.
"We've been dealing with this situation for three games now, there have been too many fouls," Rodri said. "We’re talking about 10 or 15 fouls where the kid [Lamine Yamal] goes to the ground. If the referees do not call them, then the defence will keep doing the same thing."
The Spanish midfielder explained that repeated challenges on the 19-year-old winger have continued because officials have failed to intervene consistently. He added that the lack of protection only encourages defenders to keep targeting Yamal, although he praised the Barcelona youngster for producing another outstanding performance despite the physical treatment.
Lamine Yamal once again proved decisive, winning the penalty that gave Spain the breakthrough after France defender Lucas Digne mistimed his clearance and fouled the winger inside the box.
Spain march into the World Cup final
While the officiating sparked debate, Spain produced another disciplined display to eliminate one of the tournament favourites. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot before Pedro Porro doubled La Roja's advantage with a superb finish to seal a 2-0 victory.
Rodri once again dictated the tempo in midfield alongside Fabian Ruiz, completing 58 of his 67 passes, winning 11 duels and drawing three fouls in another influential display.
Spain will now turn their attention to the FIFA World Cup final, where they will face either England or Argentina as they bid to lift their second World Cup trophy. With Lamine Yamal continuing to shine and Rodri anchoring the midfield, Luis de la Fuente's side heads into the title clash in outstanding form, even as questions over the tournament's officiating continue to dominate the conversation.