Belgian Courtois backs Lammens to recover from costly World Cup mistake
Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois rallied behind Senne Lammens after the substitute’s late mistake proved decisive in Belgium’s 2-1 World Cup quarter-final defeat by Spain on Friday, insisting the young goalkeeper will emerge stronger from the painful experience.
Courtois was forced off in the 71st minute at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles after suffering a muscle injury and giving Manchester United goalkeeper Lammens an unexpected opportunity in one of the biggest games of his career. Belgium already suffered a setback before kick-off after captain Youri Tielemans was ruled out with a hamstring injury sustained in the warm-up.
Lammens’ night ended in heartbreak in the 88th minute when he failed to keep out Pau Cubarsi’s long-range effort, allowing Mikel Merino to pounce on the rebound to score the winner that sent Spain advanced to the semi-finals of the World Cupwhere they will face France on July 14.
Despite the costly error, Courtois was quick to console his teammate after the final whistle.
“I gave him a big hug. He’s a great goalkeeper. It only makes you stronger,” said Courtois. In the end, you can’t tell him much more or give him much more advice. He’s a strong guy, a strong personality. I’m sure he’ll be fine.
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“You know, he’s going to have some holidays and then he’s going to pull himself together in Manchester and have a great season.
The Real Madrid goalkeeper later emphasized that Lammens should not be singled out for Belgium’s elimination. “It’s a shame that Senne just couldn’t catch the ball, but that’s football,” said Courtois.
“Mike (Penders), Guy (Martens) and I went to hug him. There’s not much to say at the moment. It’s just a shame, but Senne is an excellent goalkeeper. He’s got a bright future ahead of him and moments like that make you stronger. He shouldn’t be blamed. It’s part of football.”
COURTOIS WANTED TO STAY DESPITE INJURY
Courtois revealed he felt discomfort in his leg for the first time after making a clearance early in the second half and wanted to continue despite the injury. However, Belgium coach Rudi Garcia opted to replace his first-choice goalkeeper rather than risk worsening the problem.
“Of course I wanted to continue, but the coach wanted someone at 100 percent,” said Courtois.
“I wanted to try to play maybe five or 10 minutes because I felt good. I was making tackles and I wasn’t being bothered to make those tackles.
“So that’s the coach’s decision, and that’s not a problem.
The 34-year-old admitted it was difficult to leave the field during such a crucial match, but accepted Garcia’s decision.
“Obviously you’re not happy when you have to leave the quarter-finals of the World Cup. But sometimes that’s the way it is. You can’t change it.”
Belgium defender Brandon Mechele also defended Lammens, saying the responsibility for the late goal did not lie solely with the goalkeeper.
“It’s a learning moment for him,” Mechele said.
“It wasn’t the easiest ball. I think it bounced right in front of him. And we as defenders could have helped him by connecting maybe more.
“So they have to learn from that and we as a group have to be there for each other and help each other.
Spain’s victory sealed a place in the World Cup semi-finals against France, while Belgium were left to reflect on a campaign that ended with a painful late mistake rather than a lack of fight.
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Issued by:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
11 Jul 2026 08:42 IST