Spain Aims for Historic Double Victory in World Cups

Pedro Porro, wearing number 12 for Spain, celebrated a 2-0 victory following the FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi Final match against France at Dallas Stadium on July 14, 2026, in Arlington, Texas.

The Spanish Men’s National Team could make history on Sunday. A win would make Spain the first nation to win successive World Cup championships with both men’s and women’s teams. Spain’s women won the 2023 World Cup and will defend their title in Brazil next year. The men’s team has appeared in 17 of 23 World Cup tournaments, with their last win in 2010.

The FIFA Women’s World Cup began in 1991, compared to the men’s start in 1930. In its shorter history, it has had only five champions: the United States, Germany, Norway, Japan, and Spain. Among these, only Germany and Spain have won in both categories.

The Spanish System

Spain boasts a strong men’s soccer league, led by La Liga. Its teams rank among the best in Europe. Real Madrid is one of the most successful clubs globally. FC Barcelona ranks as the world’s third-most valuable soccer club. Argentine star Lionel Messi broke Pelé’s goal record for the team. Barcelona’s Camp Nou has become a must-visit spot for passionate soccer fans.

The journey for Spanish women’s soccer has been tougher. The league and national team faced poor coaching, inadequate investment, and abuse. In 2015, players successfully demanded coach Ignacio Quereda’s removal. Since taking charge in 1988, Quereda’s tenure had been marked by indifference from the Royal Spanish Football Federation.

Even before the 2015 tournament, some players refused national duty as long as Quereda coached. In 2021’s documentary “Romper el silencio,” players accused Quereda of sexual harassment and verbal abuse. In 2023, players demanded better training and resources, with 15 refusing call-ups until changes occurred.

After Spain’s 2023 Women’s World Cup victory, federation president Luis Rubiales forcibly kissed forward Jenni Hermoso, sparking outrage. The Women’s World Cup squad supported Hermoso and called for Rubiales’ and coach Jorge Vilda’s removal. Rubiales was suspended for three years after a sexual assault conviction.

The Spanish men’s World Cup squad backed Hermoso. Striker Borja Iglesias refused to play for the federation following Hermoso’s assault. On Tuesday, after Spain beat France in the semifinal, Iglesias shared a viral hug with Hermoso on the sidelines.

Spain is set to face Argentina at 3pm ET on Sunday in New Jersey.