Thibaut Courtois compares Belgium comeback to Real Madrid mentality: ‘Have experienced that many times’ | OneFootball

Belgium looked destined for an early World Cup exit, but when the pressure intensified, Thibaut Courtois turned to a familiar source of inspiration: Real Madrid.

The Red Devils found themselves 0-2 down against Senegal in their Round of 32 encounter and appeared to be heading out of the tournament. 

Senegal were already beginning to picture a place in the last 16 before Belgium mounted a stunning late recovery, scoring three times to seal a dramatic 3-2 victory.

For Courtois, the comeback carried echoes of experiences he has lived through countless times during his career at Real Madrid.

Courtois sees Madrid mentality in Belgium comeback

Belgium have endured a difficult transition period in recent years, with many believing the country’s celebrated golden generation has already passed its peak.

That made their response against Senegal even more significant.

Courtois was instrumental in the win over Senegal. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Trailing by two goals and struggling to impose themselves for long stretches of the contest, Belgium found a way back into the match and eventually completed one of the most memorable turnarounds of the World Cup knockout stage.

Speaking after the game, Courtois highlighted the mentality that kept Belgium believing until the final whistle.

“We believed right until the end. We scored a goal and, just as the manager had told us during the water break, everything changed and we ended up winning. 

“I’ve experienced that many times with Real Madrid.”

The Real Madrid goalkeeper has built a reputation for thriving under pressure, having played a key role in several dramatic European nights at club level.

Courtois looking ahead to Round of 16

Although Belgium ultimately progressed, Courtois admitted there was little he could do to prevent Senegal from taking control of the game early on.

Courtois compared Belgium’s comeback to Real Madrid. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)

The African side looked on course for qualification before Belgium’s late resurgence transformed the atmosphere.

Reflecting on the match, the Belgian shot-stopper said, “I couldn’t do anything about Senegal’s two goals.”

Courtois also spoke about what the achievement means at this stage of his international career.

At 34 years old, the Real Madrid star remains one of Belgium’s most influential figures and produced another decisive contribution by winning an important one-on-one duel with Sadio Mané.

“I don’t know what will happen in four years’ time, although a World Cup in Spain, my home, would be lovely. But for now, we have to enjoy what we’ve achieved,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo