Belgium coach Rudi Garcia faced heavy criticism after substituting an injured Thibaut Courtois during the World Cup quarter-final against Spain, a decision that contributed to a 2-1 defeat on Friday. Courtois, widely regarded as one of the world's best goalkeepers, was replaced by Senne Lammens in the 71st minute after reporting a leg problem. Lammens then spilled a low strike from Pau Cubarsí in the 86th minute, allowing substitute Mikel Merino to score the winning goal.
Garcia's Decision Sparks Outrage
Belgian analysts and fans were quick to condemn Garcia's decision. Commentator Peter Vandenbempt said on Belgian radio: "You substitute the best goalkeeper in the world during a World Cup quarter-final because he can no longer kick long balls … astonishing! I simply cannot fathom it. The only explanation is that Garcia clings to rigid principles. Not 100% fit? Then you're out. But surely someone like Courtois knows what he is and isn't capable of?"
Garcia defended his choice, stating: "Since the start of the World Cup, I've said only players who are 100% physically fit are allowed to play. That applies to Thibaut as well. We needed his long balls — first to Charles De Ketelaere, then to Romelu Lukaku. We didn't want Thibaut's injury to get worse. So, I have no regrets about the decision to substitute him."
Garcia's Future Under Review
Garcia's contract expires at the end of the month, and the Belgian federation will review his performance. The 62-year-old Frenchman, who won Ligue 1 with Lille in 2011, was appointed in early 2025 to revitalize the team after Domenico Tedesco's toxic tenure. His tasks included staying in the top tier of the Nations League and qualifying for the World Cup, both achieved. Reaching the quarter-finals also met expectations. Garcia's record in 20 internationals stands at 12 wins, six draws, and two defeats.
However, questions about his tactics, substitutions, and management style persist. Belgium's inconsistent World Cup campaign included draws with Egypt and Iran before beating New Zealand to top their group. They narrowly escaped Senegal in the last 32 after Garcia substituted key players when trailing 2-0. Critics debate whether his substitutions or Senegal's defensive errors sparked the comeback.
Mixed Results and Courtois' Future
Garcia can point to highlights such as a 4-1 demolition of co-hosts USA and the introduction of promising players like Nathan Ngoy and Nicolas Raskin. His substitutes contributed nine goals at the tournament, a record for any men's World Cup team. After the match, Courtois cast doubt on his international future, saying: "It would be good to take a year-long break from the Nations League so I can find some rest. Then I can keep goal for the Euro qualifiers and the European Championships again. It's up to the national coach and the federation to make a choice. If they see it differently than I do … perhaps this was my last match."
