In 2010, Spain dazzled the football world with their tiki-taka on their way to World Cup glory in South Africa.
Powered by the midfield brilliance of Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta, and the goals of David Villa, they became one of the most iconic sides to have played in the tournament’s storied history.
With their strong Barcelona core and the tactical acumen of Vicente del Bosque, they secured their first-ever title with short, intricate passes and relentless movement, defeating the Netherlands 1-0 in the final.
Spain now stand three wins from a second triumph after defeating Portugal 1-0 in the last 16 on Monday – just like they did in Cape Town 16 years ago.
But if Spain are to get their hands on the trophy again in New Jersey on 19 July, they may have their defence, rather than their attack, to thank.
Spain possess an array of attacking talent and midfield riches that would be the envy of most nations.
Mikel Oyarzabal has scored 17 goals in his past 17 starts for La Roja and 18-year-old wonderkid Lamine Yamal is back to full fitness, while Pedri continues to pull the strings in midfield with support from 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri.
Yet it is at the other end of the pitch where the Spaniards have built the foundations of their latest World Cup challenge.
Luis de la Fuente’s side have reached the quarter-finals without conceding a goal and are the only team yet to be breached at the tournament after co-hosts Mexico shipped three against England in the last 16.
They are the first team in World Cup history to keep a clean sheet in six consecutive matches, breaking clear of the previous mark set by Italy (1990) and Switzerland (2006-10).
They have now gone 10 hours and nine minutes without conceding in the competition.
Credit: bbc.com
