Unai Simón Sets World Cup Record with 519 Scoreless Minutes

Jul 3, 2026

74 min

Jul 3, 2026 04:31

Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon sets World Cup record with 519 straight scoreless minutes

## Record-Breaking Performance

Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simón has achieved a remarkable feat by setting a new World Cup record for the longest streak without conceding a goal. Simón's clean-sheet run reached 519 minutes during Spain's 3-0 victory over Austria, surpassing the previous record of 517 minutes held by Italy's Walter Zenga since 1990.

## Key Role in Spain's Defense

The 29-year-old, who plays for Athletic Bilbao, has been instrumental in Spain's defensive success. Throughout the tournament, Simón has maintained four consecutive clean sheets, with Spain yet to concede a goal. His efforts have been supported by a strong defensive unit that limited Austria to no shots on target.

## Trusted by the Coach

Simón has been Spain's first-choice goalkeeper for several years, despite competition from other talented players like David Raya and Joan García. His relationship with coach Luis de la Fuente, which dates back to their success in the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in 2015, has been pivotal in his international career.

## Spain's Recent Success

Under de la Fuente's leadership, Spain has experienced a successful period, winning the 2023 Nations League and the 2024 European Championship. The team has lost only once in their last 37 competitive matches, with Simón playing a crucial role in their defensive strategy.

## Looking Ahead

As Spain advances to the World Cup's round of 16, Simón's record-breaking performance highlights the team's defensive prowess. With strong competition in the goalkeeping ranks, Spain remains a formidable force in the tournament.

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