Thibaut Courtois injury triggers Belgium's World Cup 2026 quarter‑final loss

Belgium's run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended in the quarter‑finals after a 2‑1 defeat to Spain. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was forced off in the 71st minute with a quadriceps injury and was replaced by 24‑year‑old Senne Lammens. Lammens' error on a long‑range attempt allowed substitute Mikel Merino to score the winning goal in the 88th minute.

Courtois said he felt the pain during a long goal‑kick, wanted to stay on the field, but respected the coach’s decision to substitute him. He later described his tears as "frustration" and hinted he may take a break from the Nations League, leaving his future with the Belgian national team uncertain.

Coach Rudi García defended the substitution, stressing the need for players to be at 100 % in a high‑level tournament and noted other injuries to key players such as Kevin De Bruyne. He praised Courtois' performance and the team's overall effort despite the loss. Courtois also complimented Spain, calling them a strong candidate to win the tournament and stating the winner of the upcoming semifinal would likely become world champions.