Rodri tells Spain to chase World Cup dream without fear against Messi's Argentina

NEW YORK, July 17 : Spain captain Rodri has urged his teammates to carry more hunger than fear into Sunday's World Cup final against Argentina, where Lionel Messi and a side he called "the team to beat" stand between them and football's biggest prize.

Spain arrive at the final after winning the Nations League and European Championship in recent years, a glittering rise that Rodri said had been built step by step rather than conjured overnight.

"We've been through a gradual process of growth, where we've seen a team mature over the last few years," Rodri told a press conference on Friday.

"This team and this generation were going to make a name for themselves... and now reaching the final of a World Cup. So we're pleased with the journey the team has taken, but we're not stopping there; our ambition goes much further."

For Rodri, who has won the Champions League with Manchester City and the Ballon d'Or, the World Cup remains the summit.

"The greatest thing that can happen to you is to become world champion," he said. "I'm happy with my career, but there's always that drive to keep going."

Spain have conceded only once in the tournament and Rodri said they were a "very well-rounded team" who control their own penalty area, the opposition's and the midfield. Asked to identify Spain's weaknesses, he smiled and kept the scouting report safely locked away.

"We have strengths and weaknesses," he said. "We have few weaknesses, but I'll keep those to myself."

ARGENTINA'S 'COMPETITIVE SPIRIT'

The obstacle could hardly be more formidable. Argentina are in a second consecutive World Cup final, powered by the competitive streak, late goals and comeback habit that have made them such awkward company.

Rodri said Spain had taken note of that