Thibaut Courtois

Courtois produced a string of key saves through Belgium's World Cup run before going off injured in the 71st minute of their quarterfinal loss to Spain at Los Angeles Stadium on 10 July 2026, with Spain winning 2-1 on Mikel Merino's late goal.

The injury raised immediate concern for Real Madrid, who rely heavily on Courtois as a difference-maker; backup Andriy Lunin kept just one clean sheet in 12 appearances the last time he deputised for an extended run.

Courtois is one of the most physically dominant goalkeepers in the world game, using his 2.00m frame to cover more of the goal on shot-stopping instinct while also playing a modern, ball-playing sweeper-keeper role for Real Madrid.

His shot-stopping under pressure — arguably his greatest strength — was on full display against Spain before the injury forced him off.

Courtois said before the tournament he wanted to step back from international football afterward, though he hopes to return for Euro 2028 qualifying — meaning the Spain quarterfinal could stand as his final Belgium appearance depending on his recovery.

The extent of the hamstring injury threatened to affect the start of Real Madrid's 2026/27 season, a side already trying to end two years without a major trophy.