Euro 2024 final: How Rodri’s absence changed England’s game

In the Euro 2024 final, Spain's performance was significantly influenced by the absence of Rodri in the second half, as noted by David Moyes, a Uefa technical observer. This absence allowed Spain to adopt a more aggressive approach, leading to a swift goal that broke England's defensive resilience. The goal was a product of rapid forward passes, demonstrating Spain's tactical evolution throughout the tournament. Moyes emphasized that Spain's players were not focused on maintaining possession for its own sake but were instead looking to exploit opportunities. This shift in strategy was evident in their ability to create space and chances, particularly for players like Lamine Yamal, who had been contained in the first half. The match statistics revealed a decline in traditional goal-scoring methods, such as headed goals and crosses, which have been on the rise in recent tournaments. This trend suggests a broader tactical shift in football, where teams are increasingly looking for high-percentage plays rather than relying on set-piece opportunities. Ultimately, while Spain's victory left England feeling they had taken a step backward, it also illuminated potential pathways for their future development. The insights gained from this match could inform England's approach moving forward, as they seek to enhance their tactical understanding and execution in international competitions.