Courtois confident Belgium can cause World Cup upset against Spain

Belgium's hopes of causing a significant upset in the 2026 World Cup quarterfinals hinge on their ability to overcome Spain, according to goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. The Real Madrid star expressed strong confidence in his team's potential to defeat the European champions, citing a recent resurgence in their performance.

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Every player in the team knows this mission is not impossible. We have a solid squad with quality that Spain needs to take seriously.

"Every player in the team knows this mission is not impossible. We have a solid squad with quality that Spain needs to take seriously," Courtois told reporters before a training session. He pointed to the unpredictable nature of major football tournaments, where upsets are common in competitions like the Champions League and the World Cup, suggesting Belgium could be the next team to achieve such a feat.

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There are always upsets in every tournament including the Champions League, Europa League, World Cup. I think we can be one of them. Knocking out the European champions would be a big upset. The confidence is there.

Courtois, widely regarded as one of the world's top goalkeepers, acknowledged his familiarity with the Spanish team due to his 11-year residency in Spain. He described Spain as a "second home" where he might even live after his playing career, noting his children have a stronger Spanish identity. However, he firmly stated that the upcoming match is "all about Belgium."

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I have lived in Spain for 11 years, that's a long time, of course. Life there follows a slightly later schedule and the weather is better. But in the end, I am still a Belgian.