Thibaut Courtois was forced off in tears during Belgium’s 2026 World Cup quarterfinal clash against Spain at Los Angeles Stadium, with the match level at 1-1 thanks to goals from Fabian Ruiz and Charles De Ketelaere.
The Real Madrid goalkeeper had kept Belgium in the contest with five saves before going down with an apparent leg injury in the 69th minute, during a hydration break. He initially appeared to be fine to continue, but Belgium ultimately opted to substitute him, bringing on Senne Lammens in his place.
Courtois was visibly emotional as he walked off, wiping away tears while being embraced by his teammates. Despite representing Belgium, Spanish fans in the stands gave him a warm ovation as he left the pitch, a reflection of the status he holds in Madrid after years as one of Real Madrid’s most decorated players.
At 34 years old, this North American tournament is likely to be Courtois‘ last World Cup, a possibility that may explain why he left the field in tears at such a crucial moment of the match.
Lammens and a shaky response on Spain’s second goal
Courtois’ absence proved to be a heavy blow for Belgium, who were made to pay on Spain’s second goal, where Lammens played a part in failing to produce a strong enough save.
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Just before stoppage time, Pau Cubarsi unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box, and Lammens got a hand to it, but could only parry a short rebound back into the danger area.
Mikel Merino pounced on that rebound, once again playing the hero just as he did in the Round of 16 against Portugal, where he scored the winning goal in the final minutes shortly after coming off the bench.
