Spain once struggled on the global stage despite strong club sides and abundant talent at home.

They claimed a surprise Euro 1964 crown with help from Chus Pereda, the original Luis Suarez and a favorable bracket. Yet over the next 42 years they advanced past the quarterfinals in just one major event. In the last 18 years they have lifted four major trophies, and on Sunday they can make it five in five finals. (Add the Nations League for extra titles and finals.)

Spain reached the final as the opposite of Argentina. They avoid self-made traps and skip constant drama. They simply win. They hold the ball, deliver some of the tournament's tightest defending and eventually find a winner. Goals have come early against several foes, while Mikel Merino has delivered late strikes against others. Even in tense finishes Spain rarely appeared in danger of defeat.

Through a mixed group stage, France's flashes and Argentina's flair, Spain arrived almost unnoticed. With the world's best player absent from their ranks, they still enter as favorites thanks to flawless defending, a balanced system and the right leadership.

The closest you can get to defensive perfection

Teams achieve strong defensive stats in two main ways. Possession sides push opponents back and limit chances through high pressing. Underdogs often pack the box and force long shots. Spain have blended both approaches at this World Cup.

They lead all 48 teams in shots and expected goals allowed per possession.

Strong pressing helps: they top the chart in possessions starting in the attacking third, rank third in high turnovers forced and limit opponent passes per defensive action. Forwards Mikel Oyarzabal and Alex Baena lead the press. Their 63.7 percent possession allows a high line that catches foes offside often.

With players drawn from Europe's top leagues, including eight from Barcelona, the pressing and possession style fits naturally. Yet Spain also excel in transition defending and timely interventions.

The semifinal against France highlighted this balance. Spain disrupted nearly every French break. They rank low in interventions overall because they keep the ball, but against France they recorded 71, led by Pau Cubarsi and others who won most duels. France managed only 10 shots, none dangerous. Spain blocked two and cleared 18 passes in a near-perfect display.

Club underachievers, country stalwarts

Many of these defenders come from elite clubs, yet several have faced recent setbacks. Rodri recovered from a long knee injury. Aymeric Laporte moved through Al Nassr and a struggling Athletic side. Others dealt with limited minutes or youth. Attackers like Oyarzabal and Baena are not prolific scorers at club level. Spain rank mid-table in goals and expected goals but lead in differentials because the pieces suit the system.

De la Fuente noted after the semifinal that the model fits the squad. Rodri has returned to top form, topping charts in touches, passes, recoveries and tackles while creating chances.

"Rodri is the axis of the team," De la Fuente said. "He does everything well and gives balance."

The doting dad in charge

De la Fuente embodies Spain's philosophy after 13 years in the federation. Earlier he played a physical style for Athletic in the 1980s and 1990s. He knows the game inside out and speaks like a proud parent, stressing joy and unity.

He highlighted careful selection of teammates and staff. The group has spent weeks together without issues. Argentina's coach shares a similar view on bonding over tactics alone.