Rodri Scores as Spain Beat Czechia to Extend Nations League Lead
Rodri marked his return to the scoresheet for Spain as the European champions beat Czechia 3-1 in Oviedo, preserving a perfect UEFA Nations League Group 3 record and opening a three-point advantage over England.
Lamine Yamal gave Spain an early foothold when he struck in the sixth minute. Rodri then extended the hosts’ lead before half-time with a measured effort from distance, a goal carrying particular value for the Manchester City midfielder after a lean spell in front of goal for La Roja.
Czechia responded through Jiří Sláma and briefly made the contest more uncomfortable for Spain, but Mikel Merino came off the bench to add a late third and secure the points.
Rodri praises Spain’s response to changes
Spain captain Rodri said the victory required patience against a Czechia side he expected to be organised and difficult to break down under manager Santi Denia. He also highlighted the depth of the Spanish squad after a number of alterations to the starting XI.
“It was a difficult game,” Rodri said. “I told Santi that we know him and his players well, and Czechia are a very well-organised team. We had to work hard to win, but the team handled the match maturely. There were many changes and the side is still performing at a very high level. We need everybody to be ready.”
The midfielder added that his goal could help him contribute more regularly in the final third during the coming fixtures.
“Scoring for the national team is always very special,” he said. “I had not scored many recently, so hopefully this can give me momentum. It is important because everyone has to help with the goals.”
Unbeaten sequence reaches 41 matches
The result stretched Spain’s unbeaten run in all competitions to 41 matches. They remain first in Group 3, three points clear of England, while Czechia stay bottom without a point.
Spain now travel to Croatia on October 6, when another win would confirm their place in the Nations League knockout phase. Rodri expects a physically demanding away assignment as Spain seek to continue their flawless campaign.
