World Cup 2026: Courtois compares Belgium comeback against Senegal to Real Madrid’s famous fighting spirit

Thibaut Courtois admitted Belgium drew inspiration from the never-say-die mentality he experienced at Real Madrid after the Red Devils produced a stunning comeback to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time and reach the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Belgium looked destined for elimination in Seattle after falling 2-0 behind to goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaïla Sarr. For more than 80 minutes, Senegal controlled the contest with their intensity, organisation and devastating transitions, leaving Rudi Garcia’s side short of answers.

However, Romelu Lukaku’s strike in the 86th minute ignited an extraordinary turnaround before Youri Tielemans headed home an equaliser three minutes later. The midfielder then completed the comeback with a dramatic extra-time penalty, sending Belgium into the Round of 16, where they will face the United States.

Reflecting on the remarkable victory, Courtois likened the experience to some of Real Madrid’s legendary European nights.

“We believed until the end, we scored a goal and, as the coach told us during the hydration break, everything changed and we ended up winning. I’ve experienced that many times with Real Madrid.”

Belgium struggled for long periods against an outstanding Senegal

The scoreline only tells part of the story.

Senegal were unquestionably the better side for large stretches of the encounter. Pape Thiaw’s men dominated midfield battles, pressed aggressively and repeatedly exposed Belgium’s defensive vulnerabilities. They even struck the woodwork twice and could easily have extended their advantage before the dramatic finale unfolded.

Belgium’s attacking play lacked rhythm in the first half, with Charles De Ketelaere struggling to influence proceedings and Kevin De Bruyne finding little space between Senegal’s compact lines. The introductions of Lukaku, Dodi Lukebakio and Nico Raskin after the break transformed the contest and ultimately changed the momentum.

Courtois, meanwhile, refused to accept any responsibility for Senegal’s goals.

“I couldn’t do anything about Senegal’s two goals.”

The Real Madrid goalkeeper nevertheless made several important interventions to keep Belgium within touching distance before their late revival, once again demonstrating why he remains one of the world’s elite shot-stoppers.

Courtois leaves door open for a home World Cup in 2030

At 34 years old, Courtois also addressed speculation surrounding his international future and did not rule out appearing at another World Cup.

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

For now, Belgium’s focus turns to the United States in the Round of 16. Yet if their dramatic escape against Senegal proved anything, it is that Garcia’s team still possess the resilience and belief that have long defined the greatest Real Madrid comebacks, qualities Courtois knows better than most.