Spain's remarkable 37-match unbeaten run, equalling the European record set by Italy between 2018 and 2021, faces its ultimate test in the World Cup final against Argentina. The streak began after a 1-0 loss to Colombia in March 2024 and includes victories over top European sides such as Brazil, England, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Portugal.
Spain's dominance over two decades
Spain's unbeaten run is no surprise given their history. They account for six of the 11 instances of a European nation going at least 25 games without defeat, with five of those occurring in the last 22 years. The current streak includes a 2-0 semi-final win over France, though they lost the 2025 Nations League final to Portugal on penalties.
Key players in the streak
Midfielder Fabián Ruiz has played 49 times for Spain without losing a match (excluding shootouts). However, he is not among the top five most-used players in the unbeaten run. The leading man is Marc Cucurella, followed by Unai Simón, Aymeric Laporte, Lamine Yamal, and Mikel Oyarzabal. Manager Luis de la Fuente has used 62 different players in the 37 matches, demonstrating the depth of Spanish talent.
Argentina's challenge
Argentina are on a 14-match unbeaten run, all wins, but have lost three times since Spain's last defeat. No South American team has ever gone as long without defeat; Brazil went 36 matches unbeaten between 1993 and 1996, while Argentina equalled that from 2019 to 2022, ending with a loss to Saudi Arabia before winning the World Cup.
