The report says Courtois felt pain in his quadriceps while taking goal-kicks but believed he could continue making saves. He was reportedly replaced in the 71st minute, with Senne Lammens taking over.
That distinction matters. Goalkeeper distribution is increasingly important, but removing an established starter during a tight match carries a clear sporting risk. Courtois’ reported discomfort affected his long passing rather than his ability to remain in goal, creating the central question over whether Belgium prioritised precaution over continuity.
Ibrahimovic has reportedly placed responsibility for the defeat on Garcia, arguing that Mike Penders should have replaced Courtois instead of Lammens. The former Sweden striker also questioned whether club status influenced the choice and viewed Penders as the stronger alternative.
Those comments are an opinion, not an established explanation for the result. Garcia’s decision may have been based on medical advice, match preparation or the goalkeeper hierarchy available to Belgium. With no independent confirmation of the thinking behind the change, the criticism should be treated cautiously.
The report says Lammens was beaten by Merino in the 88th minute, leaving the substitute goalkeeper limited time to settle. The timing made the decision appear decisive, but it does not prove that the change caused Spain’s winner.
Courtois reportedly defended Lammens after the match, describing him as a goalkeeper with a bright future. That response underlines the split in the debate: Ibrahimovic focused on the selection, while Courtois protected his replacement.
Belgium’s next fixture will bring the issue back into focus. Courtois’ availability, Garcia’s goalkeeper choice and Lammens’ response will shape whether the substitution becomes a one-night controversy or a lasting tournament storyline.