Rodri Banned for Spain After Breaking New Rule at Euro 2024
Rodri’s absence will be felt in Spain’s upcoming match against Albania as Rodri Banned for Spain After Breaking New Rule at Euro 2024 during the intense clash against Italy at Euro 2024. This unfortunate incident marks his second booking in consecutive games at the tournament.
- Spain beat Italy 1-0
- Rodri suspended for the next game
- Booked over new referee rule
Spain beat Italy 1-0: (Rodri Banned for Spain)WHAT WENT DOWN?
It’s amazing how much can change in just one year in football. Take, for example, Italy’s loss to Spain in the UEFA Nations League semifinals last year. Despite their Euro 2021 victory, the Azzurri couldn’t carry that momentum into the 2022 World Cup. Time truly is a fickle thing in the world of football.
Looking beyond the setback, Spain advanced to the last 16 of Euro 2024 after defeating Italy. This victory guarantees the top spot in their group, setting them up for a potentially easier draw in the knockout rounds. Defensive midfielder Rodri is set to return for the crucial upcoming match.
In Spain’s 1-0 victory against Italy last Thursday, the Manchester City standout received a yellow card from the referee for arguing with the official before the first half ended.
The 27-year-old was cautioned because only the team captain is allowed to communicate with the referee – causing him to sit out their upcoming match against Albania on Monday since he also received a yellow card in the 3-0 win over Croatia. This new rule was implemented during Euro 2024 to discourage players from surrounding the referee when calls are made.
Spalletti’s hopes of achieving midfield harmony with Barella, Jorginho, Frattesi, and Pellegrini were shattered when they were completely outplayed by Rodri, Pedri, and Fabián Ruiz. This forced the former Napoli boss to reassess his strategy from scratch. The team’s lack of composure and organization with the ball was glaringly evident, with Jorginho reprimanding multiple teammates for careless turnovers in dangerous areas.
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The fact that their pass accuracy was a mere 80% in the first half speaks volumes about the dire situation. In a desperate attempt to turn things around, Jorginho and Frattesi were substituted for Cambiaso and Cristante at halftime, resulting in a shift to a 4-4-2 formation. However, this tactical change failed to make any significant impact as Italy continued to play second fiddle and eventually conceded the winning goal just ten minutes into the second half.
Rodri suspended for the next game: Fun Fact Alert!
Here’s an interesting tidbit for you: Did you catch that Rodri achieved a perfect passing success rate of 100% in the opposition half during a Euros game? That’s right, he didn’t miss a single pass out of the 58 he attempted! This remarkable feat hasn’t been seen since 1980. Rodri even outperformed Dedryck Boyata from Belgium, who had a similar achievement against Finland in Euro 2020, as well as Andreas Christensen from Denmark, who showcased his passing prowess against Slovenia earlier in the tournament. Impressive, isn’t it?
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What’s the plan now?
Spain, the champions of the Euros in 2012 and 2008, are aiming for a perfect record as they face Albania on Monday night. Alongside tournament hosts Germany, Spain is among the elite few who have already secured their spot in the knockout stages.