FIFA World Cup: Spain equal Italy's all-time record with 37-game unbeaten run after WC semi-final win
The Times Of India July 15, 2026 07:39 AM
Spain are not just in the World Cup final . They are now joint holders of the longest unbeaten run in men's international football history.
Luis de la Fuente 's side beat France 2-0 in a dominant semifinal in Arlington, Texas on Tuesday night to book their place in the World Cup final against either Argentina or England and in doing so, extended their unbeaten run to 37 consecutive matches, equalling Italy's all-time record streak compiled between 2018 and 2021.
The win was built on composure, discipline and clinical finishing. Mikel Oyarzabal broke the deadlock from the penalty spot in the first half, stepping up with his trademark calm to send goalkeeper Mike Maignan the wrong way and give Spain a deserved lead. France, for all their attacking quality and the presence of Golden Boot leader Kylian Mbappé, struggled to create anything meaningful against a Spanish backline that has been the most organised and resolute in the entire tournament.
Pedro Porro then put the result beyond doubt in the second half, driving forward from right back and finishing with a precise low strike that gave Maignan no chance. It was a goal that reflected everything about this Spain team- attacking from all positions, direct, confident and ruthless when the opportunity arrived.
Spain's unbeaten run now stretches back nearly three years, having last tasted defeat in October 2023. In that time, they have won the UEFA Nations League, the UEFA European Championship in 2024, and now stand just one game away from World Cup glory.
Italy's record of 37 games unbeaten had stood since March 2021, when their extraordinary streak, which included their triumphant Euro 2020 campaign was finally ended by Spain themselves in the UEFA Nations League semifinal. The irony of Spain equalling that very record is not lost on anyone who follows international football closely.
Argentina and England meet in the other semifinal on Wednesday night in Atlanta, with the winner joining Spain in Sunday's World Cup final. Should Spain win that final, they will break Italy's record outright with a 38th unbeaten match and become world champions for the second time.
One more game. One more win. And Spain stand alone in history.
