Spain defender Marchena beats Garrincha’s record by playing in 50 games without defeat

Spain’s Marchena sets mark with 50 unbeaten games

INNSBRUCK, Austria — Spain defender Carlos Marchena has set a new record of 50 straight games without defeat in Spain’s 3-2 victory over Saudi Arabia in a World Cup warmup.

Marchena overtook Brazil great Garrincha, who was unbeaten in 49 consecutive matches from 1955-66.

Marchena is not a regular starter for the European champions and came on as a substitute for Sergio Ramos in the 61st minute Saturday.

Spain has not lost a match with Marchena in the lineup since a 1-0 defeat to Greece at the 2004 European Championship in Portugal.

The Valencia defender has played 57 times for Spain.

(This version CORRECTS setting record with 50 unbeaten games.)