2026-07-09 13:37:11
Thibaut Courtois is confident that Belgium can spring a surprise against Spain in the World Cup quarter-finals.
The Belgians are seen as underdogs for Friday’s (10.07.26) last eight clash in Los Angeles but the goalkeeper thinks the team are capable of an upset after growing into the tournament.
Courtois told reporters: “Everyone on our team realises it’s possible. I think we have a strong squad with qualities that Spain will have to take into account.
“There are surprises in every tournament… the Champions League, the Europa League, the World Cup.
“There are always surprises and I think we can be one of them. Eliminating the European champions would obviously be a huge upset. The confidence is there.”
Belgium flattered to deceive during the group stages before producing a remarkable comeback against Senegal in the last 32 and thrashing the United States in the round of 16 and Courtois feels the team are getting “better and better” as the World Cup progresses.
He said: “People were a bit disappointed in us, but we’ve set that right. We’re getting better and better.
“Spain is the favourite, of course. They are excellent in possession and when they lose the ball, they press quickly. That’s where the key lies: knowing how to quickly exploit the space behind their defence.”
The Real Madrid goalkeeper hopes that he can use his knowledge and experience of Spanish football to get the better of his adopted nation.
Courtois said: “I’ve lived in Spain for 11 years – that’s a long time, of course. Life runs on a slightly later schedule there and the weather is better. But ultimately, I remain Belgian.
“Spain is my second home though and I’ll probably keep living there after my career ends.
“I also have two children who are naturally more Spanish than Belgian but at the end of the day, tomorrow’s match is all about Belgium.”
Visit Bang Premier (main website)
