Unai Simón Sets New World Cup Goalkeeping Record as Spain Reach Last 16

Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón has etched his name into World Cup history after setting a new record for the longest run without conceding a goal in the tournament.

The Athletic Club shot-stopper reached the milestone during Spain's convincing 3-0 victory over Austria in the Round of 32.

While Mikel Oyarzabal's brace and Pedro Porro's strike secured Spain's place in the last 16, Simón's defensive achievement also became one of the biggest talking points of the match.

The Spanish international has now gone 519 consecutive minutes without allowing an opponent to score in World Cup action, breaking the previous record of 518 minutes established by Italy goalkeeper Walter Zenga at the 1990 tournament.

Simón's remarkable streak spans two editions of the World Cup. It began during Spain's campaign in Qatar in 2022, where the team exited the competition after a penalty shootout defeat to Morocco without conceding during regulation and extra time.

He has continued that impressive run in 2026 with clean sheets against Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay and Austria.

By surpassing a record that had stood for more than three decades, Simón has moved ahead of several legendary goalkeepers whose achievements shaped World Cup history.

Spain have also demonstrated outstanding defensive discipline throughout the competition, entering the Round of 16 without conceding a single goal.

Their next challenge will be a highly anticipated clash against Portugal, where Simón's impressive record will face a stern examination against an attack led by Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes as Spain continue their pursuit of World Cup glory.