One Last Dance

Thibaut Courtois is not hiding from the moment. Belgium's goalkeeper has acknowledged that this World Cup could be his final one, speaking candidly about his international future as the tournament unfolds in North America.

"This might be my last World Cup," Courtois said. The admission carries real weight. At 34, with over 110 caps and three World Cups already behind him, the end of his Belgium career is approaching fast.

He brought his family to the United States precisely because of that reality. This tournament feels different. More personal. More final.

Yet the tone is not one of resignation. Courtois made it clear he still has plenty left in the tank at club level. "I want to play four or five more years at Real Madrid," he added. The separation between club and country, in his mind, is already drawn.

Legacy Still to Write

Courtois has won almost everything at club level. Three La Liga titles, two Champions League crowns, and a Golden Glove at the 2018 World Cup where Belgium finished third. That remains the high point for a generation that promised so much but never quite delivered.

This squad still carries remnants of that golden era. Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Courtois himself are still here. Still pushing. Still chasing the one prize that got away.

Belgium drew 0-0 with Iran in their second group game, leaving them with two points and a must-win clash against New Zealand to advance. Courtois matched Alireza Beiranvand save for save on the night, but clean sheets are not enough. Belgium need goals.

The knockout stage remains the target. For Courtois, it may be the final chance to add international glory to an already extraordinary career.