Thibaut Courtois’ highlights show his pivotal role played in Real Madrid’s Supercopa win against city rivals Atletico Madrid last night.
Thibaut Courtois, who had a rough debut season in Real Madrid last year has raised his level to be one of the key players in Real Madrid’s rise back to the glory.
Last night, Courtois reached to his peak level against his former club Atletico Madrid, The Belgian International made eight saves during the 120 minutes. He then made that crucial save to deny Thomas Partey in the penalty shootout.
Courtois hardly had any involvement in the first half of the game but was much in action when he constantly received threats from Los Rojniblancos in the later phase of the game.
Atletico looked almost certain to go 1-0 up when Alvaro Morata ran through in the 79th minute, only for Courtois to come to his side’s rescue. He then made three brilliant saves in extra-time, the best of which perhaps coming in the 118th minute.
A cross from the right-wing hit Ferland Mendy’s leg, but Courtois showed great reactions to get down low and save at the near post. His performance led to Florentino Perez giving him some big praise.
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“We thought he [Courtois] was the best goalkeeper in the world and he has shown that,” Perez told Movistar Plus after the game, per Goal.
Courtois also discussed both his and his side’s display. “I am very happy for another zero goals conceded and with good stops. This is very important,” he said.
“We are very happy. It was a hard-fought match against Atletico. Their style of play is waiting for an error from the other team. “They could have taken advantage of that a few times. I managed to save some, Fede stopped one.
“I think I could stop Alvaro by coming out, but he got away and Fede made the tackle. We took advantage of that well and we were the more confident team in the penalty shootout.”
Federico Valverde was given the man of the match award for his crucial red card tackle against Morata, but one surely has to appreciate the efforts put by Courtois last night.
