Despite concerns over Thibaut Courtois’ absence, Koen Casteels has been Belgium’s best player at Euro 2024 | OneFootball

Prior to the start of Euro 2024, there were plenty of concerns about the goalkeeping situation with Belgium. Thibaut Courtois, one of if not the best goalkeeper in football, had fallen out with Domenico Tedesco and was set to miss out on the tournament. The Real Madrid man had been one of the first names on the team sheet for years now. Suddenly, Belgium needed to find a suitable replacement.

In to that void has stepped Koen Casteels. So far at Euro 2024, the now former Wolfsburg goalkeeper has been Belgium’s most consistent player and in a few games has won them three or one point. Going into the Round of 16 clash with France, Casteels will surely be tested further against a strong French attack. His performance could be key in keeping Belgium in the tie. The outfield performances have been poor so far, in many ways uninspiring. This can change with the pressure now really on, and the defence will certainly be thankful that they have a confident and performing goalkeeper behind them.

GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson