"Nobody is taught to be a leader. Just like in captaincy, there is no set pattern to follow," says Rodri Hernández, whose leadership in the Spanish national team was first inspired by Sergio Ramos, then by Sergio Busquets, and now he embodies it in a grand event: the clash with Toni Kroos. These two captains are the cornerstone of Spain and Germany's play in a monumental match.

This could be the “last dance” for Kroos, who aims to bid farewell at the height of his legend at Real Madrid. Every ball in Germany’s play finds meaning when it touches Toni’s boots.

No action for Spain begins without the influence of a midfielder like Rodri, who breaks classical patterns by stepping forward and scoring, including a goal for the ages in Manchester City's quest for their first Champions League title. His latest was crucial for Spain's comeback in the Round of 16.

Spain, always direct and unyielding in their efforts, suddenly felt the urgency against Georgia. The lack of reward triggered moments of nervousness. Uncharacteristic mistakes and risky transitions exposed their only moments of vulnerability in the tournament. Rodri then stepped up, demanded the ball, and with a calm hand, signaled for composure. There was plenty of game left, and haste was not their ally.

This gesture of a captain without an armband, a player whose presence resonates with the team, mirrors the actions of Kroos in every match of his unexpected return to the national team. Having initially retired to focus on his Real Madrid career, Kroos returned with the personality to dictate the terms of his farewell. The dream of winning the EURO in his home country is as enticing as a fifteenth Champions League title with Real Madrid.

"He's one of the most decisive players for Spain and City," Kroos says about Rodri. "He never gets nervous, always remains calm, and in the last two years, he has scored crucial goals. He's a top player," he praises, seeing himself more as an 8 and Rodri as a classic Argentine 5, equally effective in both a diamond or double pivot formation.

"He's a player to remember," Rodri responds about Kroos. "He doesn't need to prove anything more. He's made an intelligent decision because he felt it was right and will end his career as an important player. He's not the same profile as me, but he dictates the tempo for his team, moves the game, and everything goes through his feet."

This connection between two key figures will be crucial in the Spain vs. Germany match. The player with more ball contact, who imposes his rhythm and unleashes the play of those around him, will have the upper hand.

The significance of leadership is evident. These players, with such strong personalities, become extensions of their coaches on the pitch, even though neither plans to pursue a career in coaching like Pep Guardiola, who also read the game from the same position.

Rodri has played three matches in EURO 2024, missing the Albania game due to suspension and needing a rest after an exhausting season. His passing accuracy stands at 93.34%, with 278 attempts and 261 completions.

Kroos, the master of precision, boasts a 95.75% success rate, completing 416 of 435 passes. This clash of two midfield generals will elevate the football of their respective teams.