Spain has strengthened its position at the top of the FIFA world rankings after a flawless international break with four Nations League victories. The national team's unbeaten run now stands at 43 matches, solidifying their status as world champions under head coach Luis de la Fuente.

Wins against England, Croatia twice, and the Czech Republic have boosted Spain's points total to 2011.57 in the ranking published on Wednesday. Argentina remains second with 1972.80 points, while Portugal climbed two places to fifth. The Portuguese side, along with Spain, are the only two teams already assured of a Nations League quarter-final spot next year.

Merino, decisive off the bench

Mikel Merino has been a key figure in this recent success. The midfielder scored twice in the 2-1 win over Croatia on October 6th, a match he entered as a substitute. His first goal came in the 61st minute, assisted by Dani Olmo, and the winner arrived in the 88th, set up by Martín Zubimendi. Four of his last five goals for Spain have come in the 88th minute or later.

"I'm really happy to be able to help out the team once again in another game where I've had to come off the bench," Merino said. The player now has 15 goals for the national team. De la Fuente praised his quality, stating he could play for any national side, and defended his World Cup selection following a long injury layoff.

An insatiable squad

The national team manager highlighted the hunger of a group that refuses to settle. "The players are ambitious. They are insatiable; they always want more. They don't conform with anything," De la Fuente explained. This mentality has translated into a run of five consecutive wins, the most recent being last week's victory over Croatia. Spain's last defeat was a friendly against Colombia in March 2024.

With this form, Spain has become the second nation, after Argentina in 2022, to win four straight games after winning the World Cup. The squad now prepares for its next fixture, an away trip to face the Czech Republic on November 12th.

The original report is at OkDiario