Spain has allowed just one goal in seven World Cup matches and secured a place in the final against either England or Argentina. Its only concession came in the quarterfinal against Belgium, ending a run of five straight matches without allowing a goal. Goalkeeper Unai Simón’s reported 650-minute World Cup shutout streak also ended. Spain recovered to win 2-1 through a late Mikel Merino goal.
During a recent broadcast of 'El Larguero' on Cadena SER, football analyst Álvaro Benito highlighted Aymeric Laporte’s influence as a decisive factor in Spain’s campaign. Benito emphasized Laporte’s leadership and composure, particularly against high-caliber opponents. France had won its first six matches before losing 2-0 in the semifinal. Lucas Digne fouled Lamine Yamal, leading to an early penalty. Mikel Oyarzabal converted, and Pedro Porro scored Spain’s second goal.
Benito said the central defensive partnership of Cubarsí and Laporte has been exceptional throughout the tournament. Laporte’s late intervention against Belgium underlined his contribution: he cleared the opposition’s best injury-time chance, as reported by The Post-Journal. Spain had also gone 37 consecutive competitive matches unbeaten since March 2023, information from the same report.
Spain’s defensive record extends beyond the semifinal. The team reached the final for only the second time, following its 2010 championship, and will face the winner of the England-Argentina semifinal. The Indian Express described the victory over France as a “near-perfect defensive masterclass” and credited Oyarzabal’s penalty and Porro’s goal in Spain’s 2-0 win.
Spain’s run to the final has prompted comparisons with other high-stakes matches, including the Spain-France semifinal, which drew international attention for sporting and political reasons. A recent diplomatic dispute between Spain and France highlighted the intensity surrounding these encounters and how football can intersect with broader national narratives.
Spain’s defense has figured prominently in the team’s international successes, including its 2010 World Cup victory. The current squad’s ability to limit opponents’ chances has revived memories of that campaign. As the final approaches, attention is on whether Laporte and his teammates can deliver another disciplined performance and secure a second title for Spain.
