Key Takeaways:
- Thibaut Courtois has expressed confidence that Belgium can overcome Spain in the World Cup quarter-final on Friday
- Belgium secured a 4-1 victory over co-hosts United States in Seattle, following a 5-1 win against New Zealand in the group stage
- Spain progressed to the last eight after Mikel Merino scored a 91st-minute winner against Portugal in the last 16
Team Belief High Ahead of Quarter-Final Clash
Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is confident his side can spring a surprise against Spain in Friday’s World Cup quarter-final, following improved performances in recent matches. Speaking to the press before training on Wednesday, Courtois emphasised the quality within Belgium’s ranks and the belief among the players that they can challenge the European champions.
🚨🇧🇪 Thibaut Courtois:
🗣️ “Facing Spain in the World Cup quarter-finals? Spain is my second home. 🇪🇸
My son will be supporting Belgium, otherwise he won’t be allowed back into the house.” 😂 pic.twitter.com/279wJ9e28H
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Footballtweet) July 8, 2026
Belgium’s Road to the Quarter-Finals
After a somewhat unconvincing group stage campaign, Belgium eventually topped their group. The team concluded the group phase with a decisive 5-1 victory over New Zealand, having previously been held by both Egypt and Iran. In the round of 16, Belgium staged a dramatic comeback against Senegal, overturning a two-goal deficit with five minutes remaining, taking the match to extra time and sealing a 3-2 win with a late penalty.
Reflecting on their journey, Courtois acknowledged initial disappointment with the team’s performances, but insists that momentum is now building, saying that Belgium are “getting better and better.”
Analysing the Spanish Threat
Spain, considered favourites by many, booked their place in the last eight after substitute Mikel Merino scored a last-gasp goal in the 91st minute, securing a 1-0 win over Portugal in the previous round. Courtois highlighted Spain’s strengths in possession and quick pressing after losing the ball. He emphasised that the key to Belgium’s chances lies in exploiting the space behind Spain’s defence, citing the Spanish squad’s technical abilities and singling out Lamine Yamal for his prowess in one-on-one situations.
Courtois: A Unique Perspective on Both Nations
Having played for both Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid, Courtois brings a deep understanding of Spanish football to the table. While he considers Spain his “second home” and notes that his two children are “naturally more Spanish than Belgian,” Courtois remains steadfast in his commitment to his home nation, underlining that Friday’s fixture is “all about Belgium.”
