Belgium Competes Without Thibaut Courtois In Major Tournament Since 2002

Belgium commenced their Euro 2024 campaign against Slovakia without Thibaut Courtois for the first time since 2002. The Real Madrid goalkeeper was notably absent from Domenico Tedesco's squad. Courtois, who had an injury-plagued season with Madrid, returned to fitness in time to help his club win the Champions League final at Wembley on June 1.

Despite his recovery and contribution to Real Madrid's success, Courtois did not make the Red Devils' squad for Euro 2024. This marked a significant change for Belgium, as Courtois had been a mainstay in their major tournament line-ups since 2002. He played in every match of Belgium's campaigns at the 2014, 2018, and 2022 World Cups, as well as Euro 2016 and 2020.

In Courtois' absence, Koen Casteels of Wolfsburg took on the goalkeeping duties against Slovakia. This was Belgium's first match at a major tournament without Courtois since June 17, 2002, when Geert De Vlieger played against Brazil. Courtois had featured in each of Belgium's previous 25 major tournament games.

OptaJohan highlighted this milestone on Twitter:

2002 - This will be Belgium's first match at a major tournament without Thibaut Courtois between the sticks since 17 June 2002 (Geert De Vlieger against Brazil), with Courtois featuring in each of the @BelRedDevils' previous 25 such games. Past. #EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/5uHdNXy8tl

— OptaJohan (@OptaJohan) June 17, 2024

Courtois' absence is a notable shift for Belgium as they navigate their Euro 2024 journey. His experience and skill have been pivotal in previous tournaments, making his omission a significant talking point among fans and analysts alike.

The decision to leave Courtois out of the squad underscores the challenges faced by players recovering from injuries, even those who have demonstrated their capabilities at the highest levels of club football. As Belgium progresses through the tournament, all eyes will be on how Casteels performs under the pressure of filling such significant shoes.