World Cup 2026: Lamine Yamal hails Courtois ahead of Spain’s blockbuster quarter-final against Belgium

Spain winger Lamine Yamal has praised Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois ahead of Friday’s FIFA World Cup quarter-final, describing the Real Madrid star as one of the finest goalkeepers in world football while insisting his sole focus is helping La Roja reach the semi-finals.

The 18-year-old Barcelona sensation has been one of the standout performers of the tournament despite managing just one goal. His pace, dribbling and creativity have made him Spain’s biggest attacking threat as Luis de la Fuente’s side continue their unbeaten World Cup campaign.

Speaking ahead of the last-eight clash, Yamal acknowledged the challenge of facing Courtois but made it clear he is concentrating on the collective objective rather than individual duels.

“Yes. For me, he’s one of the best goalkeepers in the world. He’ll make things more difficult for me, but, as always, I’ll go onto the pitch with the desire to win. I’m not thinking about any particular player.”

Spain arrive in the quarter-finals after a dramatic 1-0 victory over Portugal in the Round of 16. Mikel Merino’s stoppage-time winner settled a tense Iberian derby, while Yamal produced another influential display by constantly stretching Portugal’s defence and creating dangerous openings despite not finding the scoresheet himself. The victory followed an impressive group-stage campaign in which Spain remained unbeaten and advanced as one of the tournament favourites.

Belgium, meanwhile, have grown stronger as the tournament has progressed. After an inconsistent group stage, the Red Devils staged a remarkable comeback from two goals down to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time in the Round of 32, setting up a mouthwatering meeting with Spain. Courtois has been central to Belgium’s resurgence and believes his side are capable of causing an upset.

The clash also reunites Yamal with one of his biggest rivals in Spanish football. Courtois has faced the Barcelona winger several times in El Clásico and recently admitted that stopping Yamal will be one of Belgium’s biggest priorities.

The Real Madrid goalkeeper said Belgium’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals will largely depend on finding a way to neutralise Spain’s teenage star, while praising La Roja’s aggressive pressing and attacking quality.

The winner of Friday’s quarter-final will advance to the semi-finals, where either France or Morocco await in what promises to be another heavyweight encounter.