Spain's World Cup challenge built on historic defence

Spain stands three wins away from a second World Cup title, having defeated Portugal 1-0 in the last 16. While their 2010 triumph was celebrated for its dazzling tiki-taka style, this current iteration of La Roja is building its challenge on an unprecedented defensive foundation.

The Spanish side has reached the quarter-finals without conceding a single goal, making them the only team yet to be breached in the tournament. This remarkable feat includes keeping clean sheets in six consecutive matches, a new World Cup record surpassing previous marks set by Italy and Switzerland. Their current run without conceding extends to 10 hours and nine minutes, dating back to a goalless draw in the 2022 tournament.

"This is the result and fruits of collective work - great defensive solidity of course," said head coach Luis de la Fuente after the win against Portugal. "There is solidarity, effort, sacrifice and everybody runs for one another. Every football idea is present very clearly, but what is beautiful is the attitude these footballers show, they are committed to the cause."

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This is the result and fruits of collective work - great defensive solidity of course. There is solidarity, effort, sacrifice and everybody runs for one another. Every football idea is present very clearly, but what is beautiful is the attitude these footballers show, they are committed to the cause.

Goalkeeper Unai Simon has been instrumental, extending his personal World Cup record without conceding to 609 minutes. Despite Portugal dictating much of the game, Spain's defense, anchored by Simon, held firm. The team's attacking talent, including Mikel Oyarzabal and the young Lamine Yamal, supported by midfielder Rodri, is undeniable, but it is their collective defensive effort that forms the bedrock of their current World Cup aspirations.

Spanish football expert Guillem Balague noted the team's competitive spirit, stating, "It is a group that is committed, they all think the same way." This unified approach, emphasizing "solidarity, effort, sacrifice," as De La Fuente put it, is proving to be a winning formula as Spain aims to replicate their historic 2010 success.

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It is a group that is committed, they all think the same way.