TOP TEN LONGEST UNBEATEN RUNS IN INTERNATIONAL FOOTBALL HISTORY.

In international football, unbeaten runs are sacred, a show of consistency, unity, depth, and mental strength. Whether it’s a golden generation or a tactical masterclass, the ability to go match after match without defeat sets great teams apart. This post explores the top 10 longest unbeaten runs in national team history where legends were made and eras defined.

1. ITALY – 37 Matches (2018–2021)

Italy holds the record for the longest unbeaten run in international football, going 37 games without defeat between September 2018 and October 2021. Under Roberto Mancini, the Azzurri rebuilt from World Cup disappointment to European champions at Euro 2020. Their run featured a perfect balance of youth and experience, a dominant midfield, and rock-solid defense. This streak reestablished Italy’s global reputation and stands as the modern benchmark for consistency.

2. SPAIN – 35 Matches (2007–2009)

Spain's golden generation began its dominance with a 35-game unbeaten streak from 2007 to 2009. During this time, they won Euro 2008 and began their legendary run toward the 2010 World Cup. With tiki-taka football and stars like Xavi, Iniesta, and David Villa, Spain redefined modern football. Their run ended in 2009 against the USA, but by then, their legacy was already taking shape as one of the greatest teams ever.

3. ALGERIA – 35 Matches (2018–2022)

Algeria shocked the world with their historic 35-match unbeaten run between November 2018 and January 2022. Under coach Djamel Belmadi, the Fennecs blended raw talent with tactical maturity. The highlight? Winning the 2019 AFCON in dominant fashion. They swept through African opponents, friendlies, and qualifiers without losing, earning global respect. The run ended in a surprise 1-0 defeat to Equatorial Guinea at the 2021 AFCON, but Algeria’s place in history was already sealed.

4. BRAZIL – 34 Matches (1993–1996)

In the mid-90s, Brazil went on a 34-game unbeaten tear powered by stars like Romário, Bebeto, and Dunga. This era included World Cup qualifiers, friendlies, and continental dominance. Their flair, finishing, and solid backline helped maintain that run, which remains one of the most dominant periods in Brazilian history. It showcased their ability to win ugly or shine with brilliance.

5. ARGENTINA – 31 Matches (1991–1993)

Argentina, post-Maradona, went on a 31-match unbeaten run in the early '90s, signaling the country’s tactical maturity and defensive evolution. They lifted back-to-back Copa América titles in 1991 and 1993. With players like Gabriel Batistuta and Diego Simeone, the team combined grit and flair to navigate South America’s toughest fixtures. Their consistency laid the foundation for later generations to build upon.

6. FRANCE – 30 Matches (2021–2023)

With one of the deepest squads in world football, France went unbeaten in 30 games during the Mbappé era. Strong performances in UEFA Nations League, World Cup qualifiers, and friendlies kept Les Bleus dominant. Didier Deschamps' rotation and tactical flexibility meant even backup players delivered. The streak was symbolic of France’s status as a global powerhouse, blending youth, experience, and unstoppable pace.

7. PORTUGAL – 30 Matches (2018–2021)

Portugal’s resurgence included a 30-game unbeaten streak anchored by Cristiano Ronaldo and a supporting cast of young stars like Bruno Fernandes and Rúben Dias. Their Nations League title and stable World Cup qualification campaign were part of this run. The team combined defensive structure with creative bursts. While they didn’t win a major tournament during the streak, they rarely lost, confirming their elite status.

8. ENGLAND – 28 Matches (2020–2023)

England’s steady rise saw them go 28 games unbeaten from 2020 to 2023, including a strong Euro 2020 campaign. Gareth Southgate’s men focused on clean sheets and calm possession, powered by young stars like Saka, Bellingham, and Foden. Though not always thrilling, their consistency silenced critics. The run helped restore faith in England’s competitive identity on the world stage.

9. GERMANY – 24 Matches (2018–2021)

Germany’s 24-match unbeaten stretch post-2018 was their redemption arc. After their World Cup exit, they rebuilt with new talent and clearer tactics. Players like Kimmich, Gnabry, and Havertz took center stage, guided by veterans. This run showed Germany’s ability to reset, retool, and rise again, even without major trophies during the streak.

10. BELGIUM – 23 Matches (2018–2021)

Led by their golden generation, Belgium went 23 games without defeat across Nations League, qualifiers, and friendlies. With De Bruyne, Hazard, and Lukaku leading the charge, they looked destined for silverware. Though they didn’t lift a major trophy during this stretch, the streak highlighted their consistency and global presence. For a nation long underrated, it was a statement era.

Unbeaten runs are not just about talent, they’re about structure, hunger, and belief. From Algeria’s AFCON dominance to Italy’s European redemption, each streak on this list represents a team at its peak. These aren’t just stats, they’re stories of resilience and relentless ambition. And as football continues to evolve, new nations are always chasing the next great run.