Spain is still in the 2026 World Cup. The team secured its spot in the knockout stage after a dominant group phase performance. A 2-0 victory over Japan on Tuesday confirmed their advancement.
Coach Luis de la Fuente’s squad has not conceded a goal. Goalkeeper Unai Simon has kept six consecutive clean sheets. This is a new World Cup record, according to data from the BBC.
The defense is the core of their strategy. Spain’s backline has been impenetrable. Opponents have managed only three shots on target across three group matches.
Their next match is a round of 16 tie against Portugal. The fixture is scheduled for Monday in Riyadh. Spain is the betting favorite at 1.80 odds.
Key Players and Statistics
The team’s offensive output has been measured but effective. They have scored five goals in three games. Forward Alvaro Morata leads with two goals.
| Statistic | Spain (Group Stage) | Opponents (Combined) |
|---|---|---|
| Goals Scored | 5 | 0 |
| Shots on Target | 14 | 3 |
| Possession Average | 68% | 32% |
| Clean Sheets | 3 | 0 |
Midfielder Pedri has completed 342 passes. This is the highest in the tournament. Defender Aymeric Laporte has made 12 clearances.
The team’s last World Cup title was in 2010. They reached the semi-finals in 2022. This current squad is the youngest in the tournament, with an average age of 24.6 years.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Which team is still in the 2026 World Cup?
- A: Spain is still in the 2026 World Cup after advancing to the knockout stage with a dominant group phase performance.
- Q: How did Spain qualify for the next round of the 2026 World Cup?
- A: Spain secured its spot with a 2-0 victory over Japan, winning all group matches without conceding a goal.
- Q: Who is Spain’s next opponent in the 2026 World Cup?
- A: Spain will face Portugal in the round of 16, with the match scheduled for Monday in Riyadh.
Extended Reading
The AP reported that Simon’s scoreless streak now stands at 558 minutes. This surpasses the previous record held by Italy’s Gianluigi Buffon from 2006. Spain’s next opponent, Portugal, defeated Uruguay 2-1 in their final group match. The winner of this match advances to the quarter-finals.
