Spain’s 2‑1 win over France in the 2026 World Cup semifinal was more than just a victory; it was the latest chapter in a saga of dominance that has defined La Roja’s recent era. The triumph not only secured a place in the final but also extended Spain’s unbeaten streak to 37 games, a run that now stands shoulder‑to‑shoulder with Italy’s legendary 37‑match unbeaten sequence from 2018‑2021.
A Record‑Breaking Run
Under manager Luis de la Fuente, Spain has compiled 28 wins and nine draws since their last defeat in March 2024, a period that includes three separate victories over France and six clean sheets in the tournament. De la Fuente, who took charge after the 2024 campaign, has repeatedly praised the squad’s depth, calling them “the best in the world” and emphasizing that their potential is still growing.
The streak has also produced milestones that transcend mere numbers. Spain became the first team to win eight consecutive knockout matches across the European Championship and the World Cup, and they are on track to finish a World Cup campaign with six shutouts — a record in tournament history. Players such as Aymeric Laporte, Mikel Oyarzabal, Fabián Ruiz, Mikel Merino and the teenage sensation Lamine Yamal have all been part of a squad that mirrors the golden generation of 2008‑2012, a cohort that captured two European titles and a world crown.
Looking ahead, Spain awaits the winner of the England‑Argentina semifinal, a match that will determine their opponent in the final. Bookmakers and analysts alike have positioned La Roja as favorites, citing both the psychological edge of the unbeaten run and the tactical flexibility instilled by de la Fuente. If the Spanish side can maintain its composure, the upcoming final could cement a new chapter in the nation’s footballing narrative.