Courtois Questions Substitution After Belgium's World Cup Exit

Belgium's World Cup campaign concluded in the quarterfinals following a narrow 2-1 defeat to Spain, a match decided in the final minutes. Spain took the lead through Fabián Ruiz, Belgium equalized via Charles De Ketelaere, but Mikel Merino's 88th-minute goal secured Spain's progression.

A pivotal moment in the game was the forced substitution of Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois in the 71st minute. Courtois felt discomfort and was replaced by Matz Sels. Post-match, Courtois revealed that his departure from the game was not his decision, hinting at a potential disagreement with national coach Domenico Tedesco.

Speaking to DAZN, Courtois explained, "I just felt something. Because it was muscular, the area could get tired on long balls. I wanted to continue, but I couldn't. If you're not at 100%, I'll substitute you, Rudy told me." He added, "I was bad, I couldn't make strong clearances, I wanted to stay for five more minutes. The coach decides, and above all, it's the team. I could have continued, but the substitution was the coach's decision. I'm not angry with the coach, I'm sad because I felt good and I believe I could have stopped Spain."

Despite the controversy, the experienced goalkeeper defended his replacement, Matz Sels, who faced criticism after conceding the second goal. Courtois attributed the goal to bad luck and the dry pitch conditions, stating, "It's a matter of bad luck, that's football. He is an excellent goalkeeper and it's a shame for him because he doesn't deserve it, but that's football."