Spain into quarter-finals after Merino's late winner against Portugal
In 2010, Spain captivated the football world with their tiki-taka style en route to World Cup victory in South Africa.
Driven by the midfield mastery of Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta, alongside the goal-scoring prowess of David Villa, they became one of the most memorable teams in the tournament's history.
With a strong Barcelona core and the strategic guidance of Vicente del Bosque, Spain secured their first-ever World Cup title through short, intricate passing and continuous movement, defeating the Netherlands 1-0 in the final.
Now, Spain are three wins away from a second World Cup triumph after a 1-0 victory over Portugal in the last 16 on Monday — mirroring their success against the same opponent in Cape Town 16 years ago.
However, if Spain aims to claim the trophy again in New Jersey on 19 July, their defence, rather than their attack, may be the key factor.
"This team knows how to compete," Spanish football expert Guillem Balague told . "It is a group that is committed, they all think the same way."
'Solidarity, effort, sacrifice' - De La Fuente's mantra
Luis de la Fuente took over as Spain's head coach in 2022.
Spain boasts a wealth of attacking talent and midfield strength that would be admired by most nations.
Mikel Oyarzabal has netted 17 goals in his last 17 starts for La Roja, and 18-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal has returned to full fitness, while Pedri continues to orchestrate play in midfield with support from 2024 Ballon d'Or winner Rodri.
Yet, it is in defence where Spain have laid the foundation for their current World Cup campaign.
Under Luis de la Fuente, Spain have reached the quarter-finals without conceding a goal and remain the only team yet to be scored against at the tournament after co-hosts Mexico conceded three goals to England in the last 16.
They are the first team in World Cup history to keep clean sheets in six consecutive matches, surpassing the previous record held by Italy (1990) and Switzerland (2006-10).
Spain have now gone 10 hours and nine minutes without conceding in the competition, dating back to a goalless draw in the last 16 in 2022 when Morocco advanced on penalties.
"This is the result and fruits of collective work - great defensive solidity of course," said De La Fuente after their victory against Portugal.
"There is solidarity, effort, sacrifice and everybody runs for one another. Every football idea is present very clearly, but what is beautiful is the attitude these footballers show, they are committed to the cause."
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Spain's defensive strength begins with goalkeeper Unai Simon.
Simon continues to make history by extending his remarkable run without conceding a goal at the World Cup to a record 609 minutes, successfully keeping Cristiano Ronaldo and his teammates at bay in Dallas.
"Portugal dictated most of the game, but Rafael Leao did not offer that extra spark, neither did the other substitutes," said Balague.
"Spain defended in numbers and collectively, they tracked back a lot. They individually sorted out problems. So we haven't needed a miracle save from Simon."
During this tournament, Simon has surpassed Walter Zenga's record of 517 consecutive minutes without conceding for Italy, as well as compatriot Iker Casillas' mark of 476 minutes.
Defenders Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsi anchor Spain's defence, while Pedro Porro and Marc Cucurella provide width from full-back positions.
This back-four has started three of Spain's five matches at this World Cup, with Marcos Llorente filling in for Porro at right-back in the other two games.
"It also helps that Rodri is reaching his best version and he has had two extraordinary games - he is the lighthouse of the team.
The partnership between Laporte and Cubarsi is perfect for the way Spain plays - moving the ball around, driving with it, and defending with a lot of space in behind."
'There's so much more to come from Spain'
Spain remain unbeaten without conceding a goal at this World Cup.
Since their 2010 World Cup triumph, Spain's journey has been mixed.
Although they retained the European Championship in 2012, subsequent World Cup campaigns have been disappointing, with back-to-back group-stage exits followed by a first knockout round elimination four years ago.
Now, as reigning European champions, Spain have assembled a squad capable of returning them to the summit of world football.
"It wasn't a great display but you feel there is so much more to come from Spain," said former England striker Chris Sutton on BBC Radio 5 Live.
"The fact that they are not conceding as well is ominous for other teams. Their toughest test will come against France if they both win their games.
"I think Spain are capable of beating France but they'll have to be near perfect on the day."
Before facing France, De La Fuente's side will aim to continue their strong run when they meet Belgium in the quarter-finals on Friday.
