Spain midfielder Rodri says his side are not scared of France ahead of their Euro 2024 clash.
The two international powerhouses will meet in the first semi-final of the tournament to decide who will face the Netherlands or England in the final on Sunday.
Rodri has been the heartbeat of Luis de la Fuente’s side so far in Germany and was a standout performer in their extra-time win over the hosts last week.
The Manchester City man says Spain are in it to win it but will show France the respect they deserve in Munich.
Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s match, he said: “France are, if not the best international team, then one of the two best.
“Over the last several years they’ve shown their talent. They have the physicality that we know about.
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“They can counterattack, they’re good on the ball… they have many talents.
“We are not scared. We are here to win the tournament.
“We are humble enough to know what we have to do against these opponents – and that’s what we will do.”
Spain have been one of the dominant forces on the international stage in the 21st century, winning the World Cup and two Euros back-t0-back between 2008 and 2012.
The likes of Iniesta, Sergio Busquets and Xavi are long gone but Rodri has been a more than adequate replacement for the legendary figures.
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La Roja will be without several key players due to suspension against the French, but it is not something Rodri is concerned with.
He added: “2008 (pictured) was the first EURO I watched properly. I remember being a fan and I wanted Spain to win so badly.
“Then they won the World Cup and another EURO. They started this feeling that we can be champions. We want to do the same.
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“As you have seen throughout the tournament, there have been a lot of players who have come into our team and been important.
“In the quarter-final against Germany, Mikel Merino and Dani Olmo didn’t start but were decisive for us.
“This speaks about the importance of our entire squad. We have important absences but that means the guys who come in are going to do even more, are going to run more.
“It is what it is. I’m pretty sure the team won’t notice any difference and we’re very confident.”
