Unbeatables v untouchables? Spain’s run faces ultimate test in World Cup final
Spain's 2-0 win over France in the World Cup semi-final extended their unbeaten run in normal and extra time to 37 matches, equalling the best such streak by a European nation and setting up a final against Argentina. The achievement is remarkable given Spain's status as reigning champions of European football over the past two decades, though it comes with a caveat: they lost the 2025 Nations League final to Portugal on penalties, meaning their record, unlike Italy's matching run under Roberto Mancini, is not a true unbeaten streak in all competitions.
The run began after a 1-0 defeat to Colombia in March 2024 and has included 11 matches against fellow heavyweights Brazil, England, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Portugal. Marc Cucurella has featured most among the 62 players Luis de la Fuente has used, ahead of Unai Simón, Aymeric Laporte, Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal, while Fabián Ruiz holds an even longer individual unbeaten record of 49 caps. Argentina, their opponents in the final, have won all 14 matches of their own unbeaten run, but have also lost three times since Spain's last defeat, leaving recent history favouring Spain.
In short
- Spain reach World Cup final unbeaten in 37 matches, equalling Italy's European record
- Streak began after March 2024 defeat to Colombia, includes wins over major rivals
- Argentina, unbeaten in 14, face Spain in the final with history against them
Explained simply
Spain have compiled an unbeaten run of 37 matches in normal and extra time, equalling the record for European nations. The streak began in March 2024 after a 1-0 loss to Colombia and has included victories against top football nations including Brazil, England, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Portugal. This consistency will now be tested in a World Cup final.
Manager Luis de la Fuente has used 62 different players throughout the streak, with defender Marc Cucurella making the most appearances, followed closely by goalkeeper Unai Simón and midfielder Fabián Ruiz. The unbeaten run counts only matches decided in regular or extra time; Spain lost the 2025 Nations League final to Portugal on penalties, so their record includes at least one competitive defeat.
Spain's opponent is Argentina, who have compiled an unbeaten run of 14 matches. Since Spain's last defeat in March 2024, Argentina have lost three times. The two records therefore reflect very different paths for each nation.
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