Thibaut Courtois backs Belgium to shock Spain in World Cup quarter-final

After an inconsistent start to the tournament, Belgium have found their rhythm at the right time, and Courtois said the squad is convinced they can produce one of the biggest surprises of the competition.

"Everyone on our team realises it's possible," Courtois told reporters on Wednesday.

"I think we have a strong squad with qualities that Spain will have to take into account.

"There are surprises in every tournament - the Champions League, the Europa League and the World Cup. There are always surprises, and I think we can be one of them. Eliminating the European champions would obviously be a huge upset. The confidence is there."

Belgium's campaign has improved dramatically after a difficult group stage. They finished top of their group by thrashing New Zealand 5-1 after earlier draws against Egypt and Iran.

They then produced a remarkable comeback in the last 16, recovering from 2-0 down against Senegal with five minutes remaining before sealing a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory with a late penalty.

Courtois believes those performances have restored belief within the squad.

"People were a bit disappointed in us, but we've set that right. We're getting better and better," he said.

While he accepts Spain will start as favourites, the experienced goalkeeper believes Belgium know where they can hurt their opponents.

"Spain is the favourite, of course. They are excellent in possession, and when they lose the ball, they press quickly. That's where the key lies - knowing how to quickly exploit the space behind their defence."

Spain reached the quarter-finals thanks to a dramatic 1-0 win over Portugal, with substitute Mikel Merino scoring the decisive goal in stoppage time.

Courtois expects another tough challenge and singled out teenage star Lamine Yamal as one of Spain's biggest dangers.

"I think the goal against Portugal highlights their strengths," he said.

"We know Lamine Yamal is incredibly talented in one-on-one situations. He's fast, agile and can beat two players if necessary."

Courtois is no stranger to Spanish football after spending more than a decade playing for Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid, but he said there will be no divided loyalties when Belgium take to the pitch.

"I've lived in Spain for 11 years, so it's a long time. Life runs on a slightly later schedule there, and the weather is better, but ultimately I remain Belgian.

"Spain is my second home, and I'll probably continue living there after my career ends. I also have two children who are naturally more Spanish than Belgian, but tomorrow's match is all about Belgium."

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