Thibaut Courtois has urged caution over Belgium’s World Cup prospects, insisting the Red Devils are not among the tournament favourites despite securing top spot in Group G.
Belgium booked their place in the knockout stages with an emphatic 5-1 win over New Zealand, ending a difficult group campaign on a high after earlier draws against Egypt and Iran had sparked criticism.
The win also marked a personal milestone for Courtois, who became Belgium’s most-capped player at World Cup finals with his 18th appearance in the competition.
Belgium respond to criticism
Questions had been raised about Belgium’s performances after failing to win either of their opening two matches, leaving qualification hanging in the balance heading into their final group game.
Courtois admitted the squad had been aware of the growing scrutiny but felt the team responded in the right way against New Zealand.
“We knew there was criticism,” he said.
“It’s normal because we didn’t play our best game against Egypt and then we missed too many chances against Iran. That meant the final match became all or nothing.
“I think we answered well and now we can focus on the next challenge.”
The goalkeeper added that expectations remain high around the national team and accepted that criticism comes with representing Belgium on the biggest stage.
‘We’re not contenders yet’
Despite the convincing win, Courtois was quick to dismiss suggestions that Belgium should now be considered genuine contenders for the trophy.
The Real Madrid goalkeeper believes his side still have plenty to prove before they can be mentioned alongside the tournament’s leading nations.
“No, I don’t think we can win the World Cup at this moment,” Courtois said.
“We have to be realistic. I think we’re still far from being one of the favourites.
“Only when you reach the semi-finals can you really start talking about winning it. Before then, it’s impossible.”
Belgium reached the semi-finals in 2018 and secured their best-ever World Cup finish by claiming third place, but Courtois feels the current squad lacks some of the quality possessed by that generation.
“I don’t think we have the same level of quality as we did in 2018, but we still have a very good team.”
Quarter-finals the first target
Courtois believes reaching the last eight would represent a strong achievement and could provide the platform for an even deeper run.
“If we get to the quarter-finals then we have a good chance and anything can happen in football,” he said.
“We can compete with any team in the world and give them a difficult game.
“Whether that’s enough to win the tournament, only time will tell.”
Historic milestone for Courtois
While Belgium’s ambitions remain focused on the team, Courtois also reflected on a significant personal achievement.
His appearance against New Zealand moved him ahead of former midfielder Enzo Scifo as Belgium’s most-capped player at World Cup finals.
The 34-year-old admitted the record was one he was particularly proud of.
“I’m very proud,” Courtois said.
“I probably won’t catch Jan Vertonghen or Romelu Lukaku in total international appearances, so having the most World Cup caps for Belgium is something very special.
“Everyone in the squad feels good and hopefully we can go as far as possible. But now the real tournament begins.”
