Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois believes his country can pull off a World Cup surprise and upset Spain in Friday’s quarter-final after finally starting to show some form.
«Everyone in our team realizes that it is possible. I think we have a strong team with qualities that Spain will have to take into account,» he told reporters ahead of training on Wednesday.
“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 shock. The confidence is there,» he said on Monday after a 4-1 win over co-hosts the United States in Seattle.
Belgium limped through the group stages and eventually topped the table after beating New Zealand 5-1 in its final match after being beaten by Egypt and Iran.
The Red Devils then went past Senegal, coming back from two goals down with five minutes remaining to take the match to extra time and then win 3–2 with a last-gasp penalty.
READ ALSO | France’s ambition faces its biggest test yet from old rival Morocco
«People were a bit disappointed in us, but we put that right. We are getting better,» Courtois insisted.
«Spain are of course the favorites. They are excellent in possession and when they lose the ball they quickly apply pressure. That’s where the key lies: knowing how to quickly exploit the space behind their defense.»
Spanish substitute Mikel Merino gave his team a 1-0 win in the last 16 when he scored in the 91st minute against Portugal on Monday.
“I think the goal against Portugal highlights their strengths,” said Courtois. «We know that Lamine Yamal is incredibly talented in one-on-one situations; he is fast, agile and can beat two players if necessary.»
Courtois, ranked among the best goalkeepers in world football, knows all about the Spanish threat having played for Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid.
«I have been living in Spain for 11 years, which is of course a long time. Life there is a little later and the weather is better. But in the end I remain Belgian.
“However, Spain is my second home and I will probably continue to live there after my career is over.
“I also have two children who are naturally more Spanish than Belgian, but ultimately tomorrow’s match is all about Belgium,” he added.
Published on July 9, 2026
