Midfield legends Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta orchestrated proceedings, while David Villa provided the cutting edge in attack as Spain lifted their first World Cup trophy with a 1 0 victory over the Netherlands in Johannesburg.
Sixteen years later, Spain are once again dreaming of global glory after booking their place in the World Cup quarter finals with a hard fought 1 0 victory over Portugal.
Although this squad still boasts some of the world’s most gifted attacking players, their latest title challenge has been built on an exceptional defensive record rather than free flowing football. Mikel Oyarzabal continues to deliver in front of goal, teenage sensation Lamine Yamal has returned to full fitness, while Pedri and Ballon d’Or winner Rodri remain the heartbeat of the midfield.
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Yet it is Spain’s organisation without the ball that has separated them from the rest of the field.
According to BBC sport, Spain are the only side yet to concede a goal at this World Cup and have become the first nation in tournament history to keep six consecutive clean sheets. Their defensive run stretches back more than 10 hours of World Cup football.
Goalkeeper Unai Simon has also set a new tournament record with 609 consecutive minutes without conceding, surpassing previous marks held by Italy’s Walter Zenga and Spain great Iker Casillas.
Coach Luis de la Fuente has credited his team’s success to collective effort, saying every player is committed to defending together with solidarity, sacrifice and relentless work off the ball. Football expert Guillem Balague also praised Spain’s defensive discipline, highlighting the influence of Rodri and the growing partnership between centre backs Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsi.
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Spain’s recent World Cup history has been far less successful than their golden era, with two group stage exits followed by a last 16 elimination in 2022.
However, they returned to this tournament as reigning European champions and have steadily emerged as one of the favourites to lift the trophy. Former England striker Chris Sutton believes there is still more to come from De la Fuente’s side and warned that their ability to defend so effectively makes them a daunting prospect for every remaining opponent.
Spain’s next challenge comes against Belgium in the quarter finals, with victory moving them within two wins of a second World Cup crown.
Photo: REUTERS/Issei Kato
