Real Madrid Star’s World Cup Injury Could Doom the Season Before It Begins
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois suffered a thigh injury during the 2026 World Cup quarterfinal against Spain, forcing him off in tears and raising concerns for Real Madrid ahead of the 2026–27 season.
- Courtois experienced significant pain in his quadriceps but insisted he could have continued; however, Belgium's coach Rudi Garcia decided to substitute him to prevent worsening the injury.
- Despite Courtois making four crucial saves before leaving, his replacement Senne Lammens conceded a goal that led to Spain's victory, intensifying regret over the substitution.
- Real Madrid is worried due to Courtois’s history of muscle injuries, including a similar quadriceps injury last season that sidelined him for nearly seven weeks and impacted the club’s performance.
- If Courtois faces a lengthy recovery, Real Madrid may have to rely on backup goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, who struggled last season, potentially weakening the squad for the upcoming campaign.
