Sport: Soccer Country: Spain Category: Scores & Results

Rudi Garcia criticized for removing Courtois in World Cup loss to Spain

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 11, 2026, 7:03 PM

Last updated Jul 11, 2026

Rudi Garcia criticized for removing Courtois in World Cup loss to Spain

Summary

Rudi Garcia faced backlash after substituting Thibaut Courtois in Belgium's World Cup quarter-final against Spain on July 11. Courtois experienced a leg strain but felt fit to continue, while Garcia insisted he was not 100% ready to play. Senne Lammens, who replaced Courtois in the 71st minute, made a critical error that allowed Spain to secure a late goal, resulting in a 2-1 defeat for Belgium. The decision has intensified scrutiny regarding Garcia's coaching choices and future with the team.

Source Links

The Guardian Sport

Status Watch

•Thibaut Courtois was replaced in the 71st minute due to injury concerns.
•Senne Lammens made a crucial error leading to Spain's winning goal.
•Belgium lost 2-1 to Spain in the World Cup quarter-finals.
•Rudi Garcia's future as coach is under scrutiny following the defeat.

Latest Updates

7:03 PMThe Guardian Sport — Rudi Garcia faces Belgian backlash for taking Courtois off in World Cup loss to Spain

What they're saying

"
Replacement keeper Lammens made crucial error Garcia: ‘Only players who are 100% fit can play’ Rudi Garcia came under a barrage of fire for replacing his injured first-choice goalkeeper, Thibaut Courtois, in Belgium’s World Cup quarter-final defeat by Spain on Friday, adding to questions about the coach’s ⁠future. Courtois felt he could continue ⁠despite a twinge in his leg, but Garcia insisted that he came off as he was not 100% fit. Senne Lammens went on as his replacement after 71 minutes but spilt a low strike by Pau ⁠Cubarsí, allowing the Spain substitute Mikel Merino to pounce in the 86th minute and secure a 2-1 victory. Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Reuters

Related Teams & Leagues

Soccer