Heartbreak for Belgium in quarter-final exit
Belgium exited the World Cup after a quarter-final loss to Spain, with key players leaving the field due to injuries. The match, held at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, saw Belgium‘s goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, depart in tears during the 71st minute due to a muscle injury. His replacement, Senne Lammens, conceded the decisive goal in the 88th minute, leading to a 2-1 victory for Spain.
The night’s challenges began even before kickoff, as captain Youri Tielemans sustained an injury during the warm-up and was replaced by Hans Vanaken. Tielemans had been a consistent starter and a key performer for Belgium throughout the tournament. Additionally, Belgium was already without Amadou Onana, who was ruled out due to a torn knee ligament, and Zeno Debast, sidelined with a leg injury.
Coach Rudi Garcia acknowledged the impact of Courtois‘s injury, stating that losing him was a significant blow. Courtois, who had been an outstanding performer throughout the tournament, wanted to continue playing but was unable to take long kicks. His departure was a visibly emotional moment, with Garcia embracing him as he left the pitch.
A valiant effort from the ‘golden generation’
Despite the setbacks, Belgium‘s squad, often referred to as their ‘golden generation,’ put up a strong fight against Spain. The team had recovered from a challenging group stage to reach the quarter-finals. Jérémy Doku, returning to the lineup, showed improved form compared to the group stage, creating space and opportunities for his team.
Spain took the lead through Fábian Ruiz, but Belgium quickly responded. Charles De Ketelaere, who had scored twice in the previous round, headed in an equaliser in the 41st minute after a pass from Kevin De Bruyne. This goal marked Belgium‘s first shot on target in the match, showcasing their resilience.
Belgium‘s resolve was evident throughout the game, contrasting with their earlier exits in previous tournaments. Leandro Trossard was substituted after an hour, making way for Romelu Lukaku as part of a triple change that also saw Axel Witsel enter the game. This meant that all four veterans from the 2014 World Cup squad were on the field for the final thirty minutes.
However, the physical demands of the match began to take their toll on Belgium‘s experienced players. Courtois, despite making a crucial save earlier, was seen massaging his left hip before his eventual substitution. De Bruyne also struggled with his fitness, eventually being replaced in the 80th minute after receiving a yellow card for a challenge on Ferran Torres.
The decisive moment came when Pau Cubarsí‘s shot from outside the box was spilled by Lammens, allowing Mikel Merino to score for Spain. This goal secured Spain‘s passage to the semi-finals, their first since 2010.
Courtois concluded this World Cup having appeared in 21 matches across his career, a record second only to Germany‘s Manuel Neuer among goalkeepers in World Cup history. He made 10 saves and conceded five goals in five matches before Belgium‘s exit.
While Courtois may potentially participate in future World Cups, this tournament is likely the last for several other long-serving members of Belgium‘s squad. Despite the ultimate result, Garcia‘s team demonstrated pride and determination until the final whistle.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
