It can be lonely being a goalkeeper; one error that leads to a goal and everyone remembers it. Senne Lammens will now be facing this after a mistake cost Belgium a place in the World Cup semi-final. Lammens came on after Courtois was forced off with an injury in the 71st minute.
Twenty-four-year-old Lammens’ first appearance at the World Cup ended in misery as he failed to hold onto a long-range shot, and Mikel Merino scored from the mistake in the 88th minute.
Learning Experience For Lammens
Courtois revealed to reporters he gave Lammens a big hug; he is a great goalkeeper, you only get stronger from this. Courtois wanted to stay on the pitch, but he had a slight muscle injury, and the coach wanted someone 100% in goal. Then added:
Obviously you are not happy when you have to leave a quarter-final of the World Cup, but it is what it is. You can not change it.
Belgium defender Brandon Mechele also showed support for Senne Lammens, saying:
It was a learning moment for him; it was not the easiest ball. I think it bounces just in front of him. And we as defenders could have helped him by following up maybe more.
