Thibaut Courtois Unfazed by Lionel Messi Ahead of World Cup Quarter-Final
By BBC Sport Staff
Belgium’s goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has dismissed any fears of facing Argentina’s Lionel Messi in their highly anticipated 2014 World Cup quarter-final clash. The Atlético Madrid star expressed confidence in his ability to contain the Argentine superstar, drawing on his experience playing against Messi in La Liga.
“I know very well how to play against Messi. I’ve faced him several times with Atlético Madrid, and we even won against Barcelona,” Courtois said at a press conference. “He’s a sensational player who can decide a match in a second. Argentina has a very strong attack with Messi, Higuaín, Di María, and Agüero — although Agüero is expected to miss the match — but their defense isn’t as strong, and we can take advantage of that.”
Courtois, who helped Atlético Madrid secure last season’s La Liga title, has been in exceptional form for Belgium. He has remained unbeaten in his last 21 international matches, keeping 12 clean sheets, underscoring his vital role as the team aims to make history in Brazil.
