Los Angeles, July 3: Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón etched his name into FIFA World Cup history after setting a new record for the longest scoreless streak by a goalkeeper, extending it to 519 consecutive minutes during his side’s 3-0 victory over Austria in the Round of 32.
The clean sheet was Simón’s fourth in succession at the 2026 World Cup and saw him surpass the long-standing mark of 517 minutes set by Italy legend Walter Zenga during the 1990 FIFA World Cup.
The 29-year-old has now gone more than five full World Cup matches without conceding a goal, a remarkable feat that highlights Spain’s defensive solidity during the tournament.Simón’s scoreless run began during Spain’s campaign at the 2022 World Cup and has continued seamlessly into the current edition in North America. Spain are yet to concede a goal in four matches at the 2026 finals, with the Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper playing a pivotal role in the team’s defensive dominance.Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente praised his goalkeeper after the record-breaking achievement, expressing delight at seeing Simón’s consistent performances receive global recognition.“I feel proud of him. I feel like he is a member of my family. I’m very happy for him,” De la Fuente said.
Although Simón faces stiff competition from fellow Spain goalkeepers David Raya and Joan García, he has retained the No. 1 jersey under De la Fuente, who has continued to show faith in the experienced shot-stopper.
The coach and goalkeeper have shared a long association, having first worked together when Spain won the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in 2015 before reuniting with the senior national team in 2023.
Since De la Fuente took charge, Spain have enjoyed one of the most successful periods in their recent history, winning the UEFA Nations League in 2023, the UEFA European Championship in 2024 and reaching the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup without conceding a goal.Simón also eclipsed the previous Spanish World Cup record for consecutive scoreless minutes held by legendary goalkeeper Iker Casillas. (AP)
