Thibaut Courtois left the pitch in tears after being forced off with a left thigh injury during Belgium's World Cup quarter-final defeat to Spain on Friday. The Real Madrid goalkeeper received treatment on the pitch but was unable to continue, replaced by Manchester United's Senne Lammens. Courtois was visibly upset as Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia consoled him on his way to the bench.
Belgium's Captain Also Sidelined
The injury compounded Belgium's woes as captain Youri Tielemans was ruled out before kick-off due to a hamstring injury sustained in the warm-up. The midfield general's absence weakened the Belgian midfield, adding to the team's challenges against a strong Spanish side.
Keeper Error Decides Match
Substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens made a costly error in the 88th minute, spilling Pau Curbasi's effort. The ball fell to Mikel Merino, who scored from close range to give Spain a 2-1 victory. Fabian Ruiz had opened the scoring for Spain in the 30th minute, but Charles De Ketelaere equalised for Belgium with a header 11 minutes later.
Spain to Face France in Semi-Final
Spain will now play France in the World Cup semi-final on July 14. The match marks a significant achievement for Spain, who have navigated a tough knockout stage. For Belgium, the defeat ends their World Cup campaign in disappointment, compounded by Courtois's injury and Tielemans's absence.
