Spain's 1-0 victory over Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final did more than secure a second world title—it also established a new European record for the longest unbeaten run in men's international football.
The triumph extended La Roja's unbeaten streak to 38 consecutive matches, surpassing Italy's previous record of 37 games, achieved between 2018 and 2021 when the Azzurri won UEFA Euro 2020. Spain had equalled the Italian mark by defeating France in the World Cup semi-finals before setting the new record in the final.
Spain's remarkable run began after a friendly defeat to Colombia in March 2024. Since then, Luis de la Fuente's side have remained unbeaten, collecting victories and draws throughout their successful UEFA Euro 2024 and 2026 FIFA World Cup campaigns.
One notable result during that period came in the UEFA Nations League final against Portugal. Although Spain lost the trophy in a penalty shootout, the match is officially recorded as a draw for statistical purposes, meaning it does not end the unbeaten streak.
The world champions also achieved another extraordinary milestone by becoming the first team to win a FIFA World Cup while conceding only one goal throughout the entire tournament. Spain kept seven clean sheets, including the final against Argentina, highlighting one of the strongest defensive performances in World Cup history.
The final also produced an eye-catching statistic. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez made 11 saves during the title match—more than Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simón, who won the tournament's Golden Glove award, made throughout the entire competition. Simón finished the World Cup with just 10 saves, and did not need to make one in the final, as Argentina failed to register a shot on target during the closing stages of extra time.
Spain's dominance at both ends of the pitch underlined their status as deserving world champions and reinforced their place among international football's greatest teams.