On July 14, 2026, Pedro Porro of Spain celebrated the team’s 2-0 victory over France during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi-Final at Dallas Stadium, Arlington, Texas. Spain’s men’s national team stands on the brink of history. If the Spanish team wins the World Cup on Sunday, the Spanish football federation will achieve a historic feat: being the first to secure consecutive World Cup championships for both men’s and women’s teams.
The Spanish women’s team claimed victory in the 2023 World Cup. They will enter the 2024 tournament in Brazil as defending champions. The men’s team, though consistently strong, has not won the Trophy since 2010. They have participated in 17 out of 23 tournaments.
The FIFA Women’s World Cup has a shorter history than the men’s competition, beginning in 1991, compared to 1930 for the men’s games. Only five teams have won the Women’s World Cup—Spain is among these elite competitors, alongside Germany, the United States, Norway, and Japan. Both Spain and Germany have also captured the men’s World Cup.
The Spanish System
Spain boasts a powerful men’s soccer league system, crowned by La Liga, or the Campeonato Nacional de Liga de Primera División. Spanish teams are consistently top-ranked in Europe. Real Madrid, a club based in the capital, is among the most successful globally. FC Barcelona ranks as the third-most valuable soccer club worldwide, and Lionel Messi famously surpassed Pelé’s club goal record playing for Barcelona. Visiting Camp Nou, Barcelona’s home stadium, is akin to a pilgrimage for many soccer enthusiasts.
Spanish women’s soccer has faced challenges including inadequate coaching and investment, and abuse. In 2015, the entire Women’s World Cup squad demanded the removal of their coach, Ignacio Quereda, citing indifference from the Royal Spanish Football Federation. Allegations arose against Quereda for sexual harassment and verbal abuse in a 2021 documentary, “Romper el silencio.”
Leading up to Spain’s 2023 Women’s World Cup victory, players demanded improvements to the team’s training and resources. Several players refused national team call-ups unless changes were made. After winning the 2023 World Cup, federation president Luis Rubiales faced backlash for forcibly kissing player Jenni Hermoso. Spanish players united to demand Rubiales’ removal, and he was later suspended for sexual assault.
The current Spanish men’s World Cup squad has shown solidarity with Hermoso. Striker Borja Iglesias notably refused to play after the incident until Rubiales’ removal. Iglesias and Hermoso shared a viral hug when Spain defeated France, symbolizing unity.
Spain is set to face Argentina in the upcoming match in New Jersey at 3pm ET Sunday.
Madeline Fox serves as News Director at KCUR.