UEFA Nations League 2018-19, Wales 1-4 Spain: 5 Hits and Flops

Spain players celebrate during a dominant display against Wales
Spain players celebrate during a dominant display against Wales

#3 Hit: Rodri

Combining alongside Dani Ceballos and club teammate Saúl Niguez in a midfield trio, he controlled the deep-lying areas protecting his backline well
Combining alongside Dani Ceballos and club teammate Saúl Niguez in a midfield trio, he controlled the deep-lying areas protecting his backline well

It was one of those performances where if you didn't know him before kick-off, you'll certainly remember his name afterward. Atletico Madrid central midfielder Rodri, 22, made his return to his boyhood club for a reported €20m from Villarreal this summer.

He has impressed with consistent performances across all competitions already this term and naturally, was rewarded with another Spain call-up here.

Combining alongside Dani Ceballos and club teammate Saúl Niguez in a midfield trio, he controlled the deep-lying areas protecting his backline well. In addition, he retained possession well to excellent effect - looking to pass forward and continuously hurt Wales, who struggled to keep up at times.

Barcelona's Sergio Busquets, who has made that responsibility his trademark over the past decade and counting, watched on from the bench. Presumably rested with England in mind, he would have been impressed.

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