Rodri made a crunching challenge on Odegaard during a EURO 2024 qualifier between Spain and Norway, leaving him in agony
By Kehinde Okeowo
Arsenal fans have accused Man City midfielder, Rodri, of deliberately attempting to harm their captain, Martin Odegaard during a EURO 2024 qualifier on Saturday Night.
A crunching challenge on the Norwegian by Rodri left him in agony during the match between Spain and Arsenal fans were left furious and raging after the incident.
Odegaard had received the ball around the penalty spot from the right wing in the early stages of the encounter and was aiming a shot towards Kepa Arrizabalaga’s goal.
However, Rodri flew in late with a ruthless challenge, leaving him in a heap in the penalty box and, somehow, not conceding a spot-kick after seemingly making no contact with the ball.
The 24-year-old after the challenge rolled around the floor in pain as play continued before he argued his case on his knees to French referee Benoit Bastien.
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Speaking after the match, which Spain went on to win 3-0, Odegaard told TV2: “I’m pretty sure I should have had a penalty. He’s coming with his studs right on my ankle. But I’m sure I’ll get punished [if I say anymore]. I don’t bother saying anything else about the referee. It’s better not to say anything.”
Arsenal fans who saw the strong tackle were equally livid and they took to social media to accuse the Man City enforcer of trying to disrupt their Premier League title bid by deliberately injuring their captain and playmaker.
A Twitter user, @kimmoFC tweeted: “Odegaard denied a clear penalty. Rodri trying to end Arsenal’s title run with a nasty red card challenge. Fuming.”
Another netizen, @TcholeIbrahim said: “Take Odegaard out. This Rodri guy may be on a mission.”
While @mahad962 wrote: “Understand why Haaland claims to be injured. I don’t think Rodri would make such a foul to him…”
Luckily, the Norway captain recovered and continued the game, but it won’t help supporters’ nerves over fitness, with a trip to Georgia to come for Odegaard next week.
The business end of the 2022/23 season will re-commence, with Arsenal eight points ahead of City at the Premier League summit, having played a game more.
The Gunners return to action on Saturday when they host relegation-threatened Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium.
