Spain captain Rodri believes his team's place in the FIFA World Cup final is the result of years of steady progress rather than a sudden breakthrough, saying the squad has been building towards this moment over several tournaments.

Spain has reached the World Cup final for only the second time, and Rodri said the team's triumph in the Nations League in 2023 and the European Championship in 2024 laid the foundation for its current success.

Argentines, Spaniards divided over loyalties ahead of historic World Cup final

The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner said Spain now faces its toughest test yet against defending champion Argentina in Sunday's final, adding that his teammates should focus on winning rather than fearing defeat.

"We've been gradually growing," Rodri said on Friday. "We have to keep doing the same things we're doing because it has been a process for all five years."

Spain has conceded just one goal in seven World Cup matches, including a 2-0 semifinal victory over France. Since opening the tournament with a surprise draw against Cape Verde, La Roja has outscored its opponents 13-1.

"Our goal when we got to this World Cup was to win the trophy, and we were convinced that we could achieve this," Rodri said. "We've shown that this national team has been able to defeat great opponents."

Spain's route to the final featured decisive late goals from Mikel Merino in both the round of 16 and quarterfinals, while goalkeeper Unai Simón has made nine saves during the tournament. The team's disciplined defending has also been a key factor in its success.

Rodri rejected the idea that Spain relies on a single style of play, saying the team has shown it can adapt to different situations.

Reflecting on Spain's first World Cup title 16 years ago, Rodri said that team's determination remains an inspiration, but stressed that the current squad is focused on its own development.

"We can even do it better," he said. "Against France, we played one of our best matches as a team. But against Argentina, we have to raise our level because they are the champions. I'm really confident that we can do it."

De la Fuente says Yamal is fit

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente dismissed concerns over the fitness of teenage star Lamine Yamal after the 19-year-old was seen training with his left thigh wrapped following a knock against France.

"Today he participated in the training with the other teammates, and he is fine," de la Fuente said. "He is in optimal condition."

Yamal, who famously appeared in a 2007 photograph as a baby with Lionel Messi, has been widely viewed as a future contender to succeed the Argentine great as the world's best player. However, De la Fuente said his young forward should focus on being himself rather than comparisons with Messi.

Coach unfazed ahead of final

De la Fuente said he was not concerned about the challenge of facing Argentina, possible smoky conditions or the quality of the pitch before Sunday's final.

"I am nervous because we are going back by helicopter," he said with a smile. "I'm serious. We came here by helicopter, and we have to take it back, and that makes me anxious. About everything else, I'm calm. I'm fortunate to be in this situation, and we just want to enjoy this amazing moment."