Courtois shares thoughts on Huijsen’s red card, facing PSG and his save to deny Sabitzer – ‘Sometimes you need a miracle’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was the hero in his team’s 3-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-finals.

With only seconds left in a game that turned tense unexpectedly, Courtois made an unbelievable save on Marcel Sabitzer’s shot.

He described the moment by saying, “Sometimes you need a miracle. I never thought it would get this crazy at 2-0, but football changes quickly.

“When I saw Sabitzer shoot, I said with all my heart I have to save it and well, thank goodness it happened. Thankfully, it worked out.”

Courtois compared the save to two of his famous stops: one against Sadio Mane in the Champions League final and another against Arsenal in 2018.

“They are beautiful moments. At 3-2, making that save… If we get to the final and win, it will be in the top five of my best saves. Important and beautiful.”

Huijsen’s sending off

Speaking about Dean Huijsen’s red card, Courtois called it a big loss for the team. “Dean was playing well and giving us options.

“Now, someone else will need to step up. This is Real Madrid—many players are ready to take the chance.

“His red card was unlucky, but it’s something young players learn from. We’ll try to win the next matches for him so he can play in the final.”

Dean Huijsen was sent off against Borussia Dortmund. (Photo by Sandra Montanez/Getty Images)

Courtois also spoke about life under new coach Xabi Alonso. “Tournaments like this help the team come together, especially with new players.

“We’re spending a lot of time with each other, which builds bonds. The boss is always energetic, attentive, and pushes everyone to give their best.

“He wants the whole team involved, both in attack and defence. That’s the only way to win—everyone has to be in the right place so players like Vini, Kylian or Jude can shine.”

On facing PSG and remembering Jota

Looking ahead to the semi-final against PSG, Courtois acknowledged the challenge. “They’re the European champions, and they play very well.

“We need to fix our mistakes from today because they press high and keep the ball well. But I believe we can find the answers and win,” he shared confidently.

Finally, Courtois expressed his sadness over the death of Diogo Jota. “It was shocking news. He had three kids like me, and he had just got married… it’s heartbreaking. We send our deepest condolences to his family and team.

“Everyone spoke well of him, and that shows what a good person he was. It reminds us how precious life is and how quickly things can change.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo