Courtois likens Belgium’s comeback to Real Madrid’s fighting spirit

On a tense night in Qatar’s World Cup Round of 32, 34‑year‑old Thibaut Courtois recalled his Real Madrid experience after Belgium overturned a 0‑2 deficit to beat Senegal 3‑2, describing the comeback as a reflection of the Spanish club’s famed fighting mentality. Belgium appeared on the brink of a swift exit as Senegal took an early 0‑2 lead and began envisioning a place in the last‑16. The African side seemed set to seal the tie before the Red Devils mounted their late resurgence. Courtois played a decisive role in the reversal, notably winning a crucial one‑on‑one duel with Senegal’s forward Sadio Mané. His saves helped Belgium stay within striking distance as the match progressed. Reflecting on the turnaround, Courtois emphasized the team’s belief. He said, “We believed right until the end. We scored a goal and, just as the manager had told us during the water break, everything changed and we ended up winning.”

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The goalkeeper drew a direct parallel to his club career. He added, “I’ve experienced that many times with Real Madrid.” The Belgian keeper has built a reputation for thriving under pressure, having featured in several dramatic European nights with Real Madrid. Those high‑stakes encounters have shaped the mentality he described on the World Cup stage.

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Courtois also looked beyond the tournament. He stated, “I don’t know what will happen in four years’ time, although a World Cup in Spain, my home, would be lovely. But for now, we have to enjoy what we’ve achieved.” Belgium’s recent transition period has led many to question whether the celebrated golden generation has passed its peak. The comeback against Senegal therefore carried extra significance for a side seeking to rewrite that narrative.