Luis de la Fuente remarked that Spain “doesn’t want to be complacent” after extending their unbeaten streak to 40 matches, emphasizing that the world champions can always find ways to improve.
Lamine Yamal scored twice, with Marc Pubill and Nico Williams also finding the back of the net, as La Roja dominated Croatia with a 4-1 victory in the Nations League on Tuesday, building on their exciting 3-2 win over England just three days prior.
Spain’s current unbeaten record, which is already a milestone for both European and South American teams, now stretches back to 40 matches since their last loss—a 1-0 defeat to Colombia in a friendly in March 2024.
Their last competitive defeat dates back to March 2023, when they lost 2-0 to Scotland in a Euro 2024 qualifier.
In the match at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, Spain showcased their dominance, racking up 1.81 expected goals (xG) compared to Croatia’s 0.47, while also holding 63.8% possession.
However, De la Fuente cautioned against underestimating their upcoming clash with Czechia and the return match in Croatia next Tuesday.
“The first half could have easily ended 4-1 or 5-1, and the second half was similarly impressive,” De la Fuente stated in a press conference, as reported by Marca.
“We faced a team that defends well and is strong in aerial duels, so we need to tighten up in those areas.”
“I’m a perfectionist. I firmly believe there’s always room for improvement, and the players share this mindset. They haven’t yet reached their full potential, and this is a very young squad.”
“One day someone will defeat us, and we’ll reflect on this differently. We refuse to become complacent.”
9 – @SEFutbol ha ganado cada uno de sus últimos nueve partidos en todas las competiciones.
Iguala su mejor racha de victorias con Luis de la Fuente como seleccionador (9V entre junio y julio de 2024).
Imparable. pic.twitter.com/GmQoXY6gGR
— OptaJose (@OptaJose) September 29, 2026
Spain has now claimed victories in their last nine matches across all competitions, matching their previous best under De la Fuente achieved between June and July 2024.
Both of these stretches included significant tournament triumphs, with Spain winning both the Euro 2024 and the 2026 World Cup.
Yamal’s two goals come shortly before the Ballon d’Or ceremony, where the Barcelona winger is in contention against Kylian Mbappé and Harry Kane for the title of the world’s best player.
De la Fuente believes Yamal should receive broader acknowledgment for the defensive aspect of his play. “Lamine is eager to continue growing and showcase the player he is. His humility enhances his greatness.”
“We all benefit from his creativity for the team, and in time, he will receive more recognition for his contributions to our collective efforts. We’re fortunate to have him.”
“Spanish football owes much to the Ballon d’Or, and our players are among the best in the world. Regardless of whether it’s Lamine, Fabian [Ruiz], Rodri, [Marc] Cucurella, or Ferran [Torres], let’s hope they get the recognition they deserve.”
Fan Take: This news highlights Spain’s impressive consistency and resilience, crucial qualities for any top team aiming for sustained success. For soccer fans, this could signify an exciting era ahead, with a squad rich in youthful talent and the potential to dominate international competitions for years to come.
Source: www.soccernews.com
