'FIFA virus' attacks Real Madrid

Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois suffered an injury during the warm-up and was forced to miss the 3-0 win over Ukraine in the Nations League early on March 24.

Courtois will be absent from the second leg against Ukraine. Photo: Reuters .

Goal reported that Courtois had suffered a muscle injury and was prevented from playing against Ukraine by the Belgian medical team. Coach Rudi Garcia decided not to take any risks and put second-choice goalkeeper Matz Sels in charge against Ukraine. Romelu Lukaku's brace helped Belgium win 3-0 at home.

The extent of Courtois' injury is currently unknown. The goalkeeper will return to Real Madrid for a full examination. It remains unclear whether Courtois will be able to play against Leganes on March 30. Losing Courtois would be a major blow to Real Madrid at a crucial stage of the season.

Previously, Courtois was also unable to participate in the match against Rayo Vallecano in La Liga on March 9 due to muscle pain. Fans are worried that Courtois' injury has relapsed.

This season, Courtois also suffered a muscle tear in the Madrid derby in October 2024. This injury forced him to miss several matches in the Champions League and La Liga, including the 0-4 defeat to Barcelona.

After a long absence from the Belgium team, Courtois officially returned but did not have a smooth start. His debut ended in a 1-3 defeat to Ukraine in the first leg. Currently, he is again out of the field due to injury.

If Courtois is forced to rest, Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti still has reserve goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, who played very well when Courtois was out last season.

Vinicius' solo play On the night of March 9, Vinicius scored after dancing among defenders, helping Real Madrid beat Rayo Vallecano 2-1.