Unexpected Change in Goal During 2023 World Cup

Misa Rodriguez, goalkeeper for Real Madrid and the Spanish national team, has opened up about a pivotal moment in her career: being replaced as Spain’s starting goalkeeper during the 2023 World Cup. The decision, made by then-national coach Jorge Vilda in the round of 16 against Switzerland, handed the starting role to Barcelona’s Cata Coll.

The change followed a 4-0 win against Japan, and Rodriguez admitted the circumstances remain somewhat unclear. She stated in an interview, The first lie was that Rubiales said that I slammed the door. Regarding the decision itself, she added, As for the other thing, well… The coach decided that, I can’t tell you if it was a sporting or personal decision.”

Captaincy Offer and Initial Reaction

Rodriguez also revealed a surprising offer from Vilda during the match against Japan. It’s true that at half-time, against Japan, Vilda told me that I was going to be captain and I didn’t wish to assume that role with players like Alexia, Jenni, Irene… How am I going to put on the bracelet ahead of them? It was my first World Cup and I had no experience.” She explained her reluctance to accept the captaincy, citing her lack of experience and the presence of more established leaders on the team.

she was compelled to wear the armband, but the situation led to her being removed from the starting lineup. I don’t want to wear an armband that in the end doesn’t belong to me. But in the end I came out with the armband, because I had to wear it. Then it’s decided that I won’t play again. I’m already telling you that I don’t know if it was because of that matter or because of the Japan game, but I don’t know… I can tell you that far.”

Relationship with Cata Coll

Despite speculation to the contrary, Rodriguez emphasized a positive relationship with fellow goalkeeper Cata Coll. For nada. O sea, sí es verdad que está la teoría, no, es que no puede ser, o sea, yo no digo que sea tu mejor amigo, pero al final estamos ahí para apoyarnos y con el que mayor tiempo pasamos es con la segunda portera y la tercera, o sea, que realmente nos apoyamos entre uno y la otra” she stated, clarifying that while they may not be close friends, they support each other as teammates.

Future with Real Madrid

Rodriguez also briefly addressed her future with Real Madrid, where her contract is set to expire in June. She remained somewhat guarded, stating, Claro que sé qué voy a hacer o qué no voy a hacer.” and expressing her happiness with both the club and the national team.