Spain midfielder, Rodri, has apologised to former Manchester City teammate Bernardo Silva after the pair were involved in a tense confrontation following their World Cup last-16 clash.
The incident came moments after Spain edged Portugal 1-0 in Dallas to book a place in the quarter-finals.
Merino sends Spain through
Substitute Mikel Merino emerged as Spain’s hero, scoring a dramatic stoppage-time winner in the 91st minute to seal a hard-fought victory over Portugal.
While La Roja celebrated progression to the last eight, the closing moments were overshadowed by a heated exchange between Rodri and Silva.
The confrontation stemmed from Rodri’s celebration after Silva failed to convert a late chance, an action that sparked tempers between the two former Manchester City teammates amid the high emotions of the knockout encounter.
Rodri, who controlled Spain’s midfield with 106 touches and 87 completed passes, admitted after the game that he had crossed the line and revealed that he apologised immediately.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Rodri stated, “I’ve said this before, I made a mistake because I celebrated when he had failed. I apologised to him immediately, but that’s where it stands because of the trust we have, and that’s it.”
Portugal prepare for major changes
Silva’s late missed header added to Portugal’s disappointment as their World Cup campaign came to an end. The defeat has also intensified uncertainty over Cristiano Ronaldo’s international future.
Meanwhile, Portugal are set to begin a new era after manager Roberto Martinez confirmed his resignation following the elimination.
As preparations for the future begin, experienced coach Jorge Jesus has emerged as the leading candidate to succeed him.
