Courtois: “Winning is Key, but We Must Elevate Our Game

Thibaut Courtois addressed the media following Real Madrid‘s 2-0 victory over Sevilla at the Santiago Bernabéu, highlighting both the significance of the win and the areas needing improvement. The Belgian goalkeeper underscored that while securing a home victory is crucial, the team must refine its overall performance. “Winning at home is important, but we need to enhance our football,” he stated. “We secured this win through a set piece and a penalty; we know there’s room for improvement, but in challenging moments like this, it’s vital to come away with the three points.”

Courtois, who has been a pivotal figure in goal for Madrid, expressed confidence in his own form and credited his consistent training with the goalkeeping staff. “I feel good; I work hard every day with Llopis and the other goalkeepers. I made several important saves during the match—that’s my job,” he noted. His performance was instrumental in maintaining a clean sheet against a competitive Sevilla side.

Kylian Mbappé’s Impact

The conversation then shifted to Kylian Mbappé, whose arrival has brought a new dynamic to the squad. Courtois praised the French forward’s motivation and skill, stating, “He’s incredibly driven and leads our attack alongside Vinícius and Rodrygo. Scoring 59 goals isn’t easy; he possesses remarkable quality and talent that makes it difficult to stop him even in training.” Courtois emphasized that training with top-tier players like Mbappé enhances his own abilities as well.

Looking Ahead to Future Success

As Real Madrid eyes future trophies, Courtois reiterated that improvements are essential for achieving their ambitious goals. “We aim for trophies in 2026, but we have to elevate our level of play to get there,” he remarked. The team is aware of its potential and recognizes that consistency is key as they navigate through injuries and challenges.

Reflecting on his experience at the Santiago Bernabéu, Courtois described playing at the iconic stadium as fulfilling a childhood dream. “It was my first time at the Bernabéu; it’s an honor to play here. Being one of the captains is a tremendous privilege,” he shared. Coming from a small town in Belgium, he believes this journey demonstrates that dreaming big can lead to remarkable achievements.

This victory not only boosts morale but also sets a foundation for upcoming matches as Real Madrid continues its pursuit of glory.