Spain target historic World Cup defensive records against Portugal
Spain are aiming to make World Cup history as the only team yet to concede a goal at the 2026 tournament prepare to face Portugal in the last 16.
Luis de la Fuente’s side have reached the knockout stages in imperious form following a commanding 3-0 victory over Austria.
That dominant performance ensured they became the first team not to face a single shot on target in a knockout match since Germany defeated Argentina in the 2014 final.
The Iberian nation are also the first European side to keep clean sheets in each of their opening four matches since Switzerland managed the feat in 2006.
Simon surpasses Zenga milestone
Goalkeeper Unai Simon has now gone 519 consecutive tournament minutes without being beaten.
The 28-year-old stopper has surpassed Walter Zenga’s long-standing tournament benchmark of 517 minutes and overhauled Iker Casillas’ national record.
His rapid ascent on the international stage has been underpinned by the unwavering faith of his manager.
De la Fuente has continued to select his preferred number one ahead of Premier League Golden Glove winner David Raya and Barcelona standout Joan Garcia.
I feel proud of him; I feel like he is a member of my family and I’m very happy for him.
Luis de la Fuente
Collective effort targets Swiss record
Despite heaping praise on his goalkeeper, the national team boss was quick to stress these achievements reflect a wider collective effort.
He played a very big role in the victory, but it’s not just about individuals as it is about the whole group coming together for that defensive effort.
Luis de la Fuente
Another significant piece of tournament history is now within touching distance for La Roja.
Switzerland’s run of 559 consecutive minutes without conceding between 1994 and 2010 remains the longest streak by any nation.
If the former world champions can keep their neighbours scoreless until the 41st minute of their upcoming knockout tie, they will set a brand new benchmark.
Recent statistical evidence suggests the formidable defensive unit have every chance of achieving that milestone.
No opponent has managed a single shot on target against the Spanish backline in the opening 75 minutes of a match during this entire campaign.