Spain keeper Unai Simon remains first choice for World Cup semi‑final

Spain’s national team goalkeeper Unai Simon is confirmed as the starter for the World Cup semi‑final against France, despite ongoing criticism of his abilities. Coach Luis de la Fuente said, “Unai Simon is undisputed,” and highlighted the keeper’s composure under pressure.

Simon, 29, plays for Athletic Bilbao and has faced fewer than ten shots in the tournament so far. He broke a 36‑year‑old record by going 649 minutes at a World Cup without conceding a goal before being beaten by Belgium’s Charles De Ketelaere. His main rivals for the Spain spot are Arsenal’s David Raya, who was named Premier League’s best goalkeeper, and Barcelona’s Joan Garcia, who kept clean sheets in 15 of his 30 league appearances.

Critics point to Simon’s high number of conceded goals in La Liga – 54 in 37 matches for Bilbao – but de la Fuente stresses his calmness and fit within the squad’s dynamics.