Spanish midfielder Rodri etched his name FIFA World Cup history with a record performance against France, helping La Roja secure a 2-0 win and a place in the 2026 World Cup finals. According to data platform OptaJoe, the midfield general completed an astonishing 655 passes during the tournament, setting a new record for most passes by any player in a single edition of the World Cup since records began in 1966.The remarkable stage underlines Rodri’s influence in the heart of the Spanish campaign, with the 30-year-old once again commanding time on the biggest stage after a long road back from injury.Against France, Rodri produced one of his best performances since returning from the serious cruciate ligament injury he suffered while playing for Manchester City against Arsenal almost two years ago. Calm in possession and relentless without the ball, he orchestrated Spain’s midfield while ensuring France’s dangerous attack never found its rhythm.“Step by step, one step further,” Rodri said after Spain sealed their place in the final. “The team is elated. It’s the second time we’ve reached a final, and we need to stay calm and rest.”His commanding display was a reminder of the form that has made him one of the most dominant midfielders in world football and won him the Ballon d’Or 2024. Throughout the tournament, Rodri has always looked closer to his best, but his semi-final performance was a complete midfield masterclass.Working alongside Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsi, Rodri helped shut down France’s star-studded front line with Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise. The Spanish defensive organization was so effective that goalkeeper Unai Simon was not required to make a single save, with Rodri repeatedly cutting off attacks before developing.Equally impressive was his work on the ball. His precise passing kept Spain in control throughout the contest, often changing play to full-backs Marc Cucurella and Pedro Porro as he covered more than 12.5 kilometers over the course of the match.Reflecting on Spain’s tactical approach, Rodri said: “Given the characteristics of the two teams, you knew one was more explosive and the other more possession-oriented. The support from the full-backs – from the whole team – was sensational.”Now, with a historic passing record and Spain just one win away from World Cup glory, Rodri has once again shown why he remains one of football’s most influential players.