Spain's World Cup journey has been nothing short of remarkable, captivating fans and pundits alike. Their recent victory over France in the semi-finals has extended their unbeaten streak to an astonishing 37 games, a record that rivals the best in European football history. This achievement is all the more impressive considering their recent setback in the 2025 Nations League final, where they narrowly lost to Portugal on penalties. The question now is whether this team can go the extra mile and claim the ultimate prize, the World Cup trophy.
What makes Spain's run even more impressive is the depth of talent they possess. Manager Luis de la Fuente has relied on a core group of five players - Marc Cucurella, Unai Simón, Aymeric Laporte, Lamine Yamal, and Mikel Oyarzabal - who have been instrumental in their success. However, it's the broader squad that has contributed to this remarkable streak. De la Fuente has utilized 62 players in the 37 matches, showcasing the wealth of talent Spain has produced. This strategic depth has allowed Spain to maintain their unbeaten record, even with key players resting or rotating.
The team's current unbeaten run began with a 1-0 loss to Colombia in March 2024, a result that paradoxically sparked their remarkable winning streak. Since then, they have faced a mix of opponents, including tournament qualifiers and formidable teams like Brazil, England, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Portugal. This diverse range of challenges has tested their mettle and resilience, contributing to their current dominance.
While Spain's run is impressive, it's worth noting that they have faced setbacks in the past. They lost the 2025 Nations League final to Portugal, and their recent loss to Saudi Arabia in the World Cup in Qatar could have been a turning point. However, their ability to bounce back and win the World Cup was a testament to their character and determination.
The real test for Spain will be in the final against a formidable opponent. Their history of dominance in European football, coupled with their current unbeaten streak, makes them strong contenders. However, the pressure of the final and the weight of recent history may also play a significant role in shaping the outcome. As the world watches, Spain will need to summon their best performance to secure the World Cup title and etch their names in football history.
