Here’s why Thibaut Courtois forced off before Spain's late winner against Belgium

Thibaut Courtois was replaced by Senne Lammens in the 71st minute of the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final, which cost Belgium dearly against Spain.

The Real Madrid goalkeeper was left in tears after he was forced off with a leg injury.

Courtois went down hurt in the 70th minute, grabbing his leg and it soon became clear that he could not continue, in a huge blow for the Red Devils.

Thibaut was emotional when he was substituted, as at 34, it may prove to be his final World Cup, having played at the previous four editions.

After being replaced in the quarter-final, Thibaut Courtois, who made four saves in the game, became the first-ever Belgian goalkeeper to be substituted off in a major tournament match.

And the change led to a cruel twist of fate, with 24-year-old Manchester United goalkeeper making the late error that sent Belgium home.

Pau Cubarsi's 25-yard effort was spilt by Lammens, allowing Mikel Merino to pounce and score an 88th-minute winner for Spain.

The goalkeeper managed to make the save but failed to keep hold of the ball, allowing the rebound to fall to Merino, who made no mistake.

Merino's late winner sent Spain into the World Cup 2026 semi-finals with a 2-1 win over Belgium in Inglewood on Friday.

Spain will face France in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final in Arlington on Tuesday.

Fabian Ruiz put Spain ahead in the 30th minute before Belgium’s Charles De Ketelaere scored an equaliser in the 41st minute.

Belgium had their 18-match unbeaten streak end. Spain claimed their only title in 2010.