Headline: Thibaut Courtois Joins Real Madrid’s Goalkeeping Elite with 346 Appearances
Thibaut Courtois achieved a significant milestone in his Real Madrid tenure during the 3-0 victory over Racing Santander, matching Miguel Angel’s record to become the joint third goalkeeper in the club’s history for the most appearances.
On this occasion, the Belgian made his 346th appearance for Los Blancos, tying him with the former Real Madrid goalkeeper.
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Currently, only Paco Buyo, who boasts 454 appearances, and Iker Casillas, with 725, have more games under their belts for the Spanish club.
Courtois marked the momentous achievement by captaining Real Madrid and securing a clean sheet, having returned to the lineup after missing the prior weekend’s El Clasico at the Camp Nou due to illness.
Courtois Reflects on Historic Real Madrid Milestone
Speaking to the club’s official media, the 34-year-old expressed his pride in reaching this landmark, especially given his long-time admiration for Casillas during his youth.
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“It’s a huge source of pride. As I’ve always said, when I was a lad I used to watch Iker Casillas and Real Madrid a lot. To be able to play 346 matches for this club, wearing this badge, is an honour.
“I hope there are still plenty more to come; it’s incredible to reach this milestone.
Courtois achieved a personal milestone in Real Madrid’s win over Racing. (Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
“When I was a child, I never thought I’d end up here, and today to reach this figure, equaling Miguel Angel, as well as wearing the captain’s armband.
“It’s an honour and a source of pride for me,” said Courtois.
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Courtois Assesses Racing Santander Victory
Courtois expressed satisfaction with the outcome but acknowledged that Real Madrid lost some control towards the end of the first half and into the second half.
“We played very well up until the 40th minute. We let our intensity drop a little after that, and they created a few more dangerous chances.
“In the second half, we slowed the pace down too much and they created a few dangerous chances, but we defended well. A clean sheet, a win, and three points. Very good,” said Courtois.
He also shared his feelings about captaining the club, noting that starting a match as captain remains a particularly fulfilling experience.
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“It’s always an honour to wear the armband for the biggest club in the world. Sometimes I get it at the end of the match.
Courtois analyzed where Real Madrid can improve. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
“I think it’s the second time I’ve started as captain, and that’s always nice – it’s a source of pride for me,” he said.
Courtois Highlights Team Spirit Ahead of Demanding Fixtures
The goalkeeper also commended Andriy Lunin for his performance during the Clasico, emphasizing the importance of having both goalkeepers prepared when called upon.
“We’re working really well, with intensity, and everyone’s pulling their weight. Take Lunin last week, for example.
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“It’s not easy being the second-choice goalkeeper, and he made a brilliant save that won us the Clásico. Everyone is ready to compete and that’s what makes us great as a team.
“And now, on Wednesday and Saturday, we’ve got two intense matches. One in Athens, which is a tricky ground. We want to keep our record intact in the Champions League too.
“And then going to Mestalla is always a tough match. I hope that by 11 o’clock on Saturday we’ll have eight out of eight and can go into the international break as leaders,” he concluded.
