World Cup: France could match 1938 Italy and 1990 West Germany by never trailing | OneFootball

France have yet to fall behind at the 2026 World Cup and could win the title without trailing, a feat achieved only twice.

If they lift the trophy without ever chasing the game, they would emulate Italy in 1938 and West Germany in 1990. L'Équipe notes that Spain and Switzerland also remain in contention to do the same.

Spain had not conceded in this edition before their quarter-final against Belgium on Friday at 21:00. Switzerland face Argentina in their quarter-final overnight from Saturday to Sunday at 3:00.

Italy were first to do it at the 1938 World Cup in France, when there was no group stage. They beat Norway 2-1 after extra time, then France 3-1, Brazil 2-1 and Hungary 4-2 to be crowned champions.

West Germany repeated the achievement in 1990 under Franz Beckenbauer. In the group they faced Yugoslavia 4-1, United Arab Emirates 5-1 and Colombia 1-1, then knocked out the Netherlands 2-1 and Czechoslovakia 1-0, edged England 1-1, 4-3 on penalties, and beat Argentina 1-0 in the final.

Only one of France, Spain or Switzerland could finish the tournament with that record on 19 July, or none if any of them fall behind or go out earlier.

Source: L'Équipe