World Cup 2026: Thibaut Courtois hits back after Belgium’s emphatic win over USA

Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said his team “punished the lack of respect” shown by the United States after the Red Devils secured a convincing 4-1 victory over the hosts in the World Cup 2026 round of 16.

Belgium produced a dominant display to eliminate the United States from their own tournament, but the result was followed by a strong reaction from Courtois, who addressed the tension surrounding the build-up to the match.

The Real Madrid goalkeeper did not hide his feelings after the final whistle, using his post-match appearance in the mixed zone to respond to what he described as disrespect from the American side in the days before the game.

Courtois reacts after Belgium’s dominant performance

Belgium’s victory ensured their place in the next stage of the competition, with the European side delivering a statement performance against Team USA.

However, for Courtois, the match was about more than just securing progression.

The Belgian number one highlighted the atmosphere before the game and suggested that his team used the criticism as motivation.

“We punished the lack of respect the Americans have shown us these past few days,” Courtois said after the match.

His comments were linked to the controversy involving Folarin Balogun, whose suspension was removed before the round-of-16 fixture, allowing him to be available for the United States.

The situation had created tension between the two camps, with Belgium unhappy about the circumstances surrounding the decision before the match.

Belgium respond on the pitch

Despite the off-field discussions, Belgium focused on their performance and delivered the perfect response on the field.

The Red Devils scored four times to secure a comfortable win and ended the United States’ hopes of continuing their World Cup journey in front of their home supporters.

Courtois pointed to the result as evidence that Belgium were able to handle the pressure and answer their critics.

The goalkeeper, who plays a key role for both Belgium and Real Madrid, praised his team’s mentality after overcoming the difficult atmosphere surrounding the fixture.

A memorable World Cup moment for Belgium

The victory sends Belgium through to the next stage of the tournament, while the United States exit after a campaign that ended with disappointment.

For Courtois and his team-mates, the win represented more than qualification.

It was also an opportunity to respond to the criticism and controversy that had surrounded the match.

Belgium will now turn their attention towards their next World Cup challenge, with confidence boosted by a convincing performance and a result that strengthened their position in the competition.

The Red Devils’ message was clear: they wanted to answer their opponents on the pitch, and Courtois believes they did exactly that.