Thibaut Courtois Leaves Belgium-Spain Match with Leg Issue

Why Courtois Left the Match

Thibaut Courtois was forced from Friday’s clash against Spain after an apparent upper‑leg injury. Before his departure he posted four crucial saves, cementing his reputation as one of the world’s best keepers for the Red Devils. The veteran shot‑stopper was seen in tears as he made way for Manchester United’s number one, Senne Lammens. The setback ends a decade‑long run as Belgium’s first choice in goal.

Who Replaced Him?

Senne Lammens took over between the posts for Belgium, becoming the final line of defense in the 24‑year‑old’s ninth international appearance. Lammens has been a reliable starter for Manchester United during the 2025‑26 campaign, earning praise for his consistency at Old Trafford. His smooth transition from club to national team was marked by an immediate showing of composure under the Spanish attack.

Lammens’ Journey From Club Brugge to Manchester United

The goalkeeper cut his teeth in the academy at Club Brugge, featuring four times before moving to Royal Antwerp ahead of the 2023‑24 season. At Antwerp he emerged as the first‑choice keeper, logging 44 appearances across all competitions in the 2024‑25 term and supplanting veteran Jean Butez. A £18.1 million move to Manchester United last summer saw him make 32 appearances, securing the Premier League Transfer of the Season award and helping the Red Devils clinch a Champions League spot.

What This Means for Belgium’s World Cup Campaign

The loss of Courtois is a significant blow to Belgium’s World Cup hopes, given his decade‑long tenure as the nation’s guardian. Lammens, while talented, is still establishing himself on the international stage, so the team will need to adapt quickly. The match itself was a quarter‑final showdown, and the injury adds a new layer of uncertainty to Belgium’s prospects in the knockout stages. Fans and analysts will watch whether Lammens can keep the same high standards Courtois set in recent years.