“It was my fault” – Bernardo Silva and Rodri clash during Spain win over Portugal | OneFootball

Former Manchester City teammates Bernardo Silva and Rodri became embroiled in a heated clash with one another during the closing exchanges of Portugal against Spain.

With a coveted spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals on the line, both squads played out a gruelling, tactical chess match that exploded in the final minutes on Monday night.

For Manchester City supporters, the tactical narrative was compelling, showcasing a masterclass from Spanish anchor Rodri while facing off against a Portugal team full of elite creators.

However, the headline from a City perspective centred around Bernardo Silva’s frustrating World Cup campaign under manager Roberto Martínez, having arrived at the tournament after agreeing to join Real Madrid on a free transfer upon the expiry of his contract.

Bernardo Silva and Rodri clash in heated argument

With Spain leading Portugal 0-1 and going on to win the contest, Bernardo Silva had a golden chance to steal an equaliser late on in the match, but failed to get over the ball with his head, sending an effort over the crossbar from relatively close range.

The recently-departed City captain did not get sympathy from his former teammate as Rodri stood over Silva whilst he was on the floor, before the two engaged in a verbal spat, and the now-Real Madrid man was calmed as he wagged his finger at the Etihad Stadium midfielder.

Speaking to reporters after the contest on Monday night, Rodri admitted, “I apologise to Bernardo Silva for celebrating his miss in the last minutes… It was my fault.”

What next for Rodri and Spain at the World Cup?

Spain’s match-winner from Mikel Merino in the 91st minute had already broken Portuguese hearts, but it was Rodri’s visceral celebration in the face of his long-time club teammate that dominated social feeds.

Despite winning six Premier League titles together under Pep Guardiola, their rapid transformation into fierce rivals – with Silva heading to the Bernabéu and Rodri anchoring the sky blues – fully dissolved their domestic chemistry on the pitch.

As a result of the vital victory, Spain now advance into the quarter-finals of the World Cup to face either the United States or Belgium.