Spain's World Cup challenge built on historic defence
Spain are the only team yet to concede at this World Cup, setting a record of six consecutive clean sheets, as their defensive solidity drives their title bid.
Spain's journey to a potential second World Cup title is being underpinned by an extraordinary defensive record rather than their usual attacking flair. After a 1-0 win over Portugal in the round of 16, Spain have kept a clean sheet in six consecutive World Cup matches, breaking the previous record of five set by Italy (1990) and Switzerland (2006-2010). They are also the only team not to have conceded at the current tournament.
Goalkeeper Unai Simon has been a key figure, extending his personal run without conceding to 609 minutes, surpassing Walter Zenga's 517 minutes and Iker Casillas' 476. However, manager Luis de la Fuente praised the collective effort: 'This is the result of collective work – great defensive solidity. The players are committed, they run for each other.'
Spanish football expert Guillem Balague told BBC Sport that the team's defence is built on solidarity and sacrifice, with the partnership of Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsi perfectly suited to Spain's style. Midfielder Rodri has also been crucial, described as the 'lighthouse' of the team. Former striker Chris Sutton noted that Spain's ability to keep clean sheets is 'ominous for other teams' and that there is 'so much more to come from Spain'.
Spain now face either co-hosts USA or Belgium in the quarter-finals, with a potential semi-final against France if both teams progress. Having returned to the World Cup as reigning European champions, Spain look capable of reaching the pinnacle again.
