Spain Breaks Italy’s Unbeaten Run at 2026 Final

Spain Clinches Victory with Late Goal

Spain edged past Argentina 1‑0 in extra time at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, lifting the FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy. The win stretched Spain’s own unbeaten streak to 38 matches, shattering Italy’s long‑standing mark of 37 straight competitive games without a loss. Ferran Torres found the net late in extra time to break a ten‑man Argentine defence. The triumph marked the culmination of a tournament where Spain advanced to the final after being highlighted in JuveFC’s semi‑final preview.

Italy’s Legacy Finally Challenged

Italy’s 37‑match unbeaten run, built under Roberto Mancini between 2018 and 2021, has been broken by Spain’s recent triumph. The Azzurri’s supporters watched as the record that defined a recent era slipped away in New Jersey. Despite this setback, Italy retains two historic honours that remain untouched.

What Italy Still Holds

Italy and Germany are now the only nations to have captured four World Cups each, still trailing Brazil’s five titles. Argentina sits at three victories. Additionally, Italy remains one of just two sides—alongside Brazil—to have won consecutive championships, celebrating back‑to‑back titles in 1934 and 1938.

Looking Ahead for the Azzurri

The defeat carries a bittersweet feel for Italian fans, who will have to rewrite part of their recent history books. While the unbeaten record is gone, the preserved milestones offer a foundation to build upon for future campaigns. The next World Cup cycle will be a key test as Italy seeks to regain lost ground.