Rodri Hernandez joins Zidane in elite club after Spain’s 2026 World Cup win

Rodri Hernandez made history on Sunday night, steering Spain to their third World Cup crown after a 2-1 victory over Argentina in the 2026 final.

What happened?

Spain claimed the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a dramatic extra-time winner in the final against Argentina at MetLife Stadium. Rodri Hernandez, the Manchester City captain, controlled the midfield before scoring the decisive goal in the 108th minute. The 25-year-old finished with a goal and an assist as Spain lifted the trophy for the first time since 2010.

Why it matters for Rodri Hernandez

Rodri now sits alongside Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo, and other icons as one of only eight players to win the World Cup and the Champions League in the same year. His performance earned him the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player. The Spain captain also became the first player to lift the World Cup while wearing the Manchester City armband.

What comes next?

Rodri returns to Manchester City with a World Cup medal and fresh momentum ahead of the 2026-27 Premier League season. Pep Guardiola, the City manager, called it a defining moment for the club’s era. Spain’s triumph cements Rodri’s legacy as one of the game’s true midfield generals.