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Spain Reaches Quarterfinals and Closes In on a World Cup Defensive Record
Spain advanced to the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals after defeating Portugal and moved one step closer to matching a historic defensive record. La Roja has conceded only two goals in the tournament, equaling the mark set by the World Cup-winning teams of 1998, 2006, and 2010.
Spain continues its pursuit of a second FIFA World Cup title and, in addition to reaching the quarterfinals, is putting together a campaign that is beginning to draw comparisons with some of the greatest teams in World Cup history. A dramatic 1-0 victory over Portugal, sealed by Mikel Merino's stoppage-time winner, kept La Roja's title hopes alive while bringing the team closer to a defensive milestone that once seemed untouchable.
Under Luis de la Fuente, Spain has conceded just two goals throughout the tournament, matching the record shared by the World Cup champions with the fewest goals allowed: France in 1998, Italy in 2006, and Spain itself in 2010.
Spain's Defense Continues to Shine
The victory over Portugal once again showcased the balance of the Spanish squad. While La Roja created several scoring opportunities, it also displayed its defensive strength during Portugal's most dangerous moments thanks to key saves from Unai Simón and a disciplined back line led by Rodri, Pau Cubarsí, and Marc Cucurella.
The decisive moment arrived deep into stoppage time when Mikel Merino latched onto a perfectly weighted pass from Ferran Torres to score the winning goal, delivering another unforgettable knockout-stage moment after his heroics at UEFA Euro 2024.
Beyond the dramatic finish, Spain continues to impress with its consistency. Through six matches, the team has allowed only two goals, keeping alive the possibility of matching one of the greatest defensive achievements by any World Cup champion.
La Roja Chases Another Historic Achievement
No nation has ever won the FIFA World Cup without conceding a goal. The best defensive record belongs jointly to France (1998), Italy (2006), and Spain (2010), each of which lifted the trophy after allowing only two goals during the entire tournament.
With the quarterfinals still ahead, Spain has an opportunity to equal that remarkable achievement if it can maintain its defensive solidity. Led by Luis de la Fuente and anchored by leaders such as Rodri, Unai Simón, and Mikel Merino, La Roja has once again established itself as one of the strongest contenders for the FIFA World Cup title.
Beyond chasing a second world championship, Spain now has the chance to add another remarkable chapter to its history by matching one of the most impressive defensive records ever achieved on football's biggest stage.
