Spain's Unai Simon breaks Zenga's World Cup clean sheet record

Spain's national team goalkeeper Unai Simon has etched his name in World Cup history by breaking the clean sheet record previously held by Italian legend Walter Zenga. Simon achieved this milestone during Spain's 3-0 victory over Austria in the round of 32 on Friday.

With this achievement, Simon has now gone 519 minutes without conceding a goal across the last two World Cup tournaments. This surpasses Zenga's long-standing record of 517 minutes without a goal, set during the 1990 World Cup in Italy. Simon's performance has been a cornerstone of Spain's strong defensive record in the current competition, where they have yet to concede a single goal.

Despite not always being the most prominent name among elite goalkeepers, Simon's consistency has been undeniable. He has made only four saves in four matches during the 2026 World Cup. Spain's coach, Luis de la Fuente, expressed immense pride in his goalkeeper, viewing him as a family member and celebrating his historic achievement.

Simon has been Spain's primary goalkeeper for nearly five years, fending off strong competition from David Raya and Joan Garcia. Unlike his rivals who play for major European clubs, Simon has spent his career with Athletic Bilbao. His strong relationship with Coach De la Fuente, dating back to their 2015 U-19 European Championship win, has solidified his position as the team's trusted shot-stopper.

“

I feel proud of him. I feel he is like a member of my family. I am very happy for him.