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Spain's defense was historic in the 2026 World Cup.
The Spaniards capped off a historic performance in the World Cup final against Argentina on Sunday, July 19, shutting out Lionel Messi and company 1-0 to finish off arguably the best defensive performances the tournament has seen.
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Going into the final match, Spain had given up just one goal, the fewest of any team in the tournament. By not allowing a goal in the final, it set the record be the fewest given up by a World Cup winner over the course of a tournament.
It's a testament to how dominant Spain has been in the World Cup, holding nearly every offense it has faced scoreless. That's why La Roja goalkeeper Unai Simon holds the World Cup record for consecutive minutes without giving up a goal, which reached 650 minutes.
How many goals has Spain given up at World Cup?
Spain allowed just one goal at the 2026 World Cup − against Belgium in the quarterfinals. It did not allow a goal in its first five matches of the tournament, and had shutouts in the semifinal against France and final against Argentina.
Fewest goals conceded in World Cup history
The fewest amount of goals given up for World Cup winners is below:
- Spain (2026): 1
- Spain (2010): 2
- Italy (2006): 2
- France (1998): 2
- Brazil (1994): 3
- England (1966): 3
- Italy (1934): 3
- Uruguay (1930): 3
What's more impressive is with the expanded tournament to 48 teams in 2026, Spain played an extra match compared to everyone else. It's worth noting Uruguay in 1930 and Italy in 1934 each played just four matches.
Spain 2026 World Cup matches, record
- Group Stage: vs. Cape Verde, 0-0 tie
- Group Stage: vs. Saudi Arabia, 4-0
- Group Stage: vs. Uruguay, 1-0
- Round of 32: vs. Austria, 3-0
- Round of 16: vs. Portugal, 1-0
- Quarterfinals: vs. Belgium, 2-1
- Semifinals: vs. France, 2-0
- Final: vs. Argentina, 1-0
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Fewest goals conceded in World Cup: Spain shutout makes history
