2026 World Cup: Spain make historic defense for second time

That defensive strength starts with Unai Simmons.

The Spanish goalkeeper continued to rewrite his impressive run of 609 minutes without scoring at the World Cup, keeping Cristiano Ronaldo and company unbeaten in Dallas.

“Portugal took most of the game but Rafael Leo didn’t provide that extra spark and neither did the other substitutes,” Balague said.

“Spain defended in numbers and as a team, they chased a lot. They solved problems individually. So we didn’t need a miracle to save from Simon.”

In this tournament, Simon surpassed Walter Zenga’s 517 consecutive minutes without scoring for Italy and his compatriot Iker Casillas’ 476 points.

Ahead of Simeone, Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cobarsi are at the heart of their defence, while Pedro Porro and Marc Cucurella provide width from full back.

That back four have started three of Spain’s five matches so far this World Cup, with Marcos Llorente at right-back in Porro for the remaining two.

Balague added: “Rodri has reached his best and has played two extraordinary games – he is the light of the team.

“The partnership between Laporte and Kubasi is perfect for Spain’s style of play – moving the ball, driving and defending with a lot of space at the back.”