Thibaut Courtois hints at likely Belgium retirement

Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois suggested his World Cup opener against Egypt could mark his final major tournament with the national team. The Real Madrid shot-stopper made the remarks ahead of Belgium’s Group stage opener. Courtois, speaking to Belgian media, framed the match as a potential career milestone. He emphasized the significance of the occasion without confirming definitive retirement plans. Belgium coach Roberto Martinez is set to name his starting XI for the Egypt game, with Courtois expected to feature. The squad has trained in Doha ahead of the Group E opener on Monday.

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Belgium’s World Cup campaign begins against Egypt in Doha on Monday. The match is the first of three group-stage fixtures for Martinez’s side. Courtois has been Belgium’s first-choice goalkeeper since 2011. He has made over 100 appearances for the national team, including at Euro 2020 and the 2018 World Cup.