Thibaut Courtois
Real MadridGK
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May 11, 1992 (34)
Left
6'7"
212 lb
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One save in historic appearance
Courtois had one save and allowed one goal in Friday's 5-1 win over New Zealand.
Analysis: Courtois made his 18th FIFA World Cup appearance in Friday's 5-1 win over New Zealand, passing Enzo Scifo's previous mark of 17 to become Belgium's all-time leader in World Cup appearances. He was beaten only once by Elijah Just's late consolation goal in the 84th minute but had little else to do as Belgium controlled the match from the opening whistle. Courtois and Belgium finish atop Group G and head into the Round of 32 riding plenty of momentum.
Three saves against Iran
Courtois made three saves and allowed zero goals in Sunday's 0-0 draw against Iran.
Analysis: Courtois made three crucial saves in Sunday's goalless draw with Iran, first getting down sharply to his right to deny Hossein Kanani's low shot after a long throw in the first half, then making his most important contribution in the second half when he repelled Mehdi Taremi's powerful volley from another long throw that threatened to give Iran the lead in a match Belgium were already struggling to win. The Real Madrid goalkeeper was let down by Nathan Ngoy's red card in the final quarter of the match, which stretched his backline and handed Iran the territorial momentum his three saves had kept at bay, finishing with a clean sheet that felt more fortunate than dominant against a resolute Iranian attacking threat. With Belgium facing New Zealand in a must-win group finale, Courtois's command of his area and leadership from the back will be essential to providing the defensive foundation his team's attacking talent will need to finally deliver a winning performance.
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