Spain sets multiple historic records by reaching the 2026 World Cup semifinals against France

According to statistics from Opta, Spain became the first team in World Cup history to keep a clean sheet in six matches within a single tournament. More notably, France's powerful attack generated only 0.3 expected goals (xG) in the semifinal, the lowest xG a team has faced in a World Cup semifinal since Brazil allowed Sweden just 0.1 xG at the 1994 World Cup.

Not only possessing a rock-solid defense, but Luis de la Fuente’s squad also extended their unbeaten run to 37 matches across all competitions (28 wins, 9 draws). This achievement allows Spain to match the record for the longest unbeaten streak by a European team in history, set by Italy from October 2018 to September 2021.

The victory over France also marked an unprecedented milestone for Spain in major tournaments. Spain became the first European team to win eight consecutive knockout-stage matches across World Cup and EURO tournaments, showcasing La Roja’s remarkable resilience in decisive games.

On an individual level, prodigy Lamine Yamal continues to demonstrate his winning touch. The 19-year-old has started 12 matches in World Cup and EURO tournaments, and Spain has won all 12. This is the highest 100% win rate among any European player when starting in those two major competitions.

With a solid defense, consistent form, and composure in knockout matches, Spain is closer than ever to winning the 2026 World Cup, while continuing to assert their position as the top power in European football at the moment.