​Belgium’s hopes in the World Cup ended in heartbreak as they were edged out by Spain, but the quarter-final produced more than just a disappointing result. Real Madrid’s Thibaut Courtois was forced off in the second half after appearing to suffer another muscle issue, casting fresh doubt over the fitness of one of the club’s most important players. Courtois had already proved his value throughout the tournament, delivering a sequence of decisive saves that helped Belgium reach the last eight. Against Spain, the veteran goalkeeper repeatedly denied Luis de la Fuente’s side with a string of crucial stops, keeping the Belgians in contention even as Spain asserted sustained pressure.
Yet his evening terminated with distress as he could not see the match through, leaving Real Madrid anxiously awaiting further medical assessments. Spain dominated long spells of possession and created several dangerous openings, but Courtois reminded everyone why he remains among the world’s elite shot-stoppers. His positioning, reflexes and command of the area denied Spain on numerous occasions, allowing Belgium to stay within reach of a potential semi-final berth.
Around the hour mark, concern rippled through the stadium when the 33-year-old dropped to the turf. After the hydration break, it became clear he would not continue. Courtois departed the field visibly emotional, tears indicating either the seriousness of the injury or the blow of seeing his World Cup end under such circumstances. Manchester United’s Senne Lammens came on to replace him for the closing stages of the match. While Belgium has not yet issued a full medical report, the prevailing worry centers on a possible muscle injury.
Courtois’ departure in tears has drawn intensified attention in Madrid, given the goalkeeper’s recent fitness history. In the 2025/26 season, the Belgian international endured several physical setbacks that disrupted his momentum at crucial points. His latest scare follows a recent absence in March due to a rectus femoris issue in his right quadriceps, which sidelined him during the decisive phases of the Champions League. That history heightens concern about the current setback, particularly as Real Madrid readies for the new season.
The club’s medical staff are expected to assess Courtois upon his return from international duty to determine both the nature and the severity of the injury. The situation adds another layer of uncertainty for Real Madrid as they plan their pre-season preparations, while Belgium must regroup after a World Cup campaign that ended at the quarter-final stage. As assessments begin, all eyes will be on Courtois for news on the severity of the problem and the timeline for his possible return, given his central role for club and country.