Belgium goalkeeper crushed by costly error that ended World Cup semifinal hopes; Courtois stands by teammate

Belgium was left heartbroken after being defeated by Spain on Saturday, when a costly blunder by goalkeeper Senne Lammens opened the door for substitute Mikel Merino to pounce and score a late goal to help La Roja advance to the 2026 World Cup semifinal.

Spain sealed a 2-1 victory in the quarterfinal clash at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The dramatic clash witnessed La Roja put up a commendable performance, keeping their World Cup dream alive. For Belgium, however, it was the end of the road following their knockout defeat.

How did Lammens cost Belgium a World Cup semifinal spot?

Lammens stepped onto the field after Thibaut Courtois was subbed off in the 71st minute due to a muscular injury. It was a huge opportunity for the young goalkeeper to display his talent on the biggest stage ever.

🚨🚨Thibaut Courtois: "Senne Lammens is a fantastic goalkeeper with a bright future. This moment will make him STRONGER."pic.twitter.com/9wnru8QUml— 🇵🇸 TP_KATSRK (@TP_Katsrk) July 10, 2026

🚨🚨Thibaut Courtois: "Senne Lammens is a fantastic goalkeeper with a bright future. This moment will make him STRONGER."pic.twitter.com/9wnru8QUml

Belgium’s outing ended in heartbreak after Lammens failed to hold Pau Cubarsi’s long-range strike, allowing Merino to seize the chance and fire home the decisive goal that helped Spain advance to the semifinals.

Courtois backs up teammate

Lammens was an emotional wreck after the final whistle, crying inconsolably after Belgium’s elimination. But Thibaut Courtois consoled the young keeper and backed him up by acknowledging the difficult situation he faced. The veteran also assured that the youngster would be fine.

“I gave him a big hug. He’s a great goalkeeper. You only get stronger from this. Eventually, you cannot say much more to him or give him much more advice. He is a strong guy, a strong personality. I’m sure he’ll be fine.

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“You know, he will have some holidays and then regroup in Manchester and have a great season,” Courtois said.

Spain’s 2-1 victory over Belgium in the quarterfinal has set up a thrilling World Cup semifinal showdown against 2018 champions France on Wednesday, July 15