Thibaut Courtois is expected to Miss Belgium’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Kazakhstan and Liechtenstein after sustaining a leg injury while playing for Real Madrid. The Spanish club confirmed on Monday that the 33-year-old goalkeeper suffered an adductor strain during their goalless La Liga draw with Rayo Vallecano.
While Real Madrid did not disclose how long Courtois will be sidelined, Spanish media reports suggest the Belgian star could be out for 10 to 12 days. This timeline would rule him out of both international fixtures but potentially allow him to return in time for Madrid’s league clash against Elche on November 23.
The injury is a setback for Belgium as they push to secure qualification for next year’s World Cup. The Red Devils will seal their spot if they defeat Kazakhstan in Saturday’s away fixture. Their final Group J match comes three days later against Liechtenstein, but Courtois is unlikely to feature in either game.
Courtois has been a key figure for both club and country, known for his consistency and composure under pressure. His absence could give Belgium’s second-choice keeper a rare opportunity to step up during a crucial stage of the qualifying campaign.
Despite the setback, optimism remains that Courtois will make a swift recovery and return to action for Real Madrid before the end of the month.
By Yockshard Enyendi
