DistantNews
Support us
Courtois sees Belgium getting better and believes they can beat Spain
๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Singapore /Sports

Courtois sees Belgium getting better and believes they can beat Spain

From CNA · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois believes his team can surprise Spain in the World Cup quarter-finals.
  • Courtois noted Belgium's improving form after a shaky group stage and a close win against Senegal.
  • He acknowledged Spain as favorites but highlighted Belgium's potential to exploit space behind their defense.

Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois expressed confidence that his team can cause an upset against Spain in the World Cup quarter-finals, believing they are capable of surprising the tournament favorites.

Everyone on our team realises it's possible. I think we have a strong squad with qualities that Spain will have to take into account.

โ€” Thibaut CourtoisSpeaking to reporters ahead of training, Courtois expressed his team's belief in their ability to challenge Spain.

Courtois acknowledged that Belgium has shown signs of improvement throughout the competition. After a somewhat inconsistent group stage, which included a narrow victory over Senegal in the round of 16, he feels the team is hitting its stride. "We're getting better and better," Courtois stated, aiming to put past disappointments behind them.

There are surprises in every tournament โ€ฆ the Champions League, the Europa League, the World Cup. There are always surprises, and I think we can be one of them.

โ€” Thibaut CourtoisCourtois highlighted the unpredictable nature of major tournaments as a reason for Belgium's potential to succeed.

While recognizing Spain as the favorite due to their strong possession-based game and quick pressing, Courtois identified potential weaknesses. He believes Belgium can exploit the space behind Spain's defense. "That's where the key lies: knowing how to quickly exploit the space behind their defence," he explained.

People were a bit disappointed in us, but weโ€™ve set that right. Weโ€™re getting better and better.

โ€” Thibaut CourtoisThe goalkeeper addressed past criticisms and emphasized the team's current upward trajectory.

Having lived in Spain for over a decade, Courtois is intimately familiar with the Spanish style of play and culture. He played for both Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid, giving him unique insight into their strengths. Despite his deep connection to Spain, he affirmed his commitment to Belgium for the upcoming match, emphasizing that his focus is solely on securing a victory for his country.

Spain is the favourite, of course. They are excellent in possession, and when they lose the ball, they press quickly. Thatโ€™s where the key lies: knowing how to quickly exploit the space behind their defence.

โ€” Thibaut CourtoisCourtois analyzed Spain's strengths and identified a key tactical area for Belgium to target.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by CNA. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.