Spain’s Star Rodri Exits Injured at Half-Time in Euro 2024 Final, England’s Brief Joy Turns to Despair as They Concede in 70 Seconds and Lose 2-1
Spain appeared to be dealt a big blow at the half-time interval in the Euro 2024 final as a distraught Rodri was substituted due to injury.
Spain’s midfield maestro was seen with his head in his hands as he walked off the pitch at the break – before taking his place on the bench for the second half.
It looked to be a big blow for the Spanish given they would have to play the next half of football without their talismanic midfielder with Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi brought on his place.
However, it only took 70 seconds for Spain to break the game’s deadlock in devastating fashion, with Nico Williams lashing a low shot into the net to stun a sleepy England.
Gareth Southgate‘s side equalised through Cole Palmer but Mikel Oyarzabal struck a late winner to the delight of Spain and Rodri, who was named player of the tournament.
Moments before Spain scored the opener, Rodri’s substitution took the ITV panel by surprise.
‘You talk about England getting luck in situations… wow,’ Gary Neville said as the second half was just about to get underway.
Ian Wright added: ‘He’s the best midfielder in the world and he’s just gone off the pitch.’
While Lee Dixon said: ‘If you want to see the back of someone it’s him. That record goes with him now.’
Rodri appeared to pick up the injury while trying to block Harry Kane’s shot on the box, which saw him collide with his own team-mate Aymeric Laporte.
Rodri was then seen with his head in his hands as he walked off for half-time.
