Courtois urges Real Madrid attackers to learn from PSG

Los Blancos lost 4-0 at the MetLife Stadium in the Club World Cup semi-final after a ruthless display from the European champions.

It was Madrid’s first-ever loss in the competition, their 21st match including the previous format, while their four goals were the most they have allowed in any game in the tournament.

Xabi Alonso’s side were held to just 32.2% possession in the match, their lowest in any match since holding 31.2% of the ball in a LaLiga game against Barcelona on April 10, 2021.

PSG’s first two goals came after Raul Asencio and Antonio Rudiger were forced into mistakes by aggressive pressing from Ousmane Dembele.

Goalkeeper Courtois believes Madrid can learn from their counterparts’ ability to pressure opponents, highlighting it as one of the key reasons for the defeat.

“In a goal kick I have half a second to think about where to give the ball, because they eat you,” said Courtois.

@Thibautcourtois: "It's a tough defeat, but a defeat to learn from." pic.twitter.com/40fwrMlRBZ

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadriden) July 9, 2025

“It's something we need to improve on as a team; They are not just individuals. From the collective we must press better, more coordinated.

“Today we lacked a little. The other games we did much better. It's something we need to watch on video and improve.”

“We tried to come out strong, but they suffocated us with the pressure and there it was difficult for us to find tranquility with the ball to hurt them by finding spaces.

“The difference is that our pressure and yours [PSG] were different. We didn't always get it right; We gave them too many spaces and when they find them, they kill you.”

Achraf Hakimi assisted Fabian Ruiz’s second goal, PSG’s third, in what was a brilliant team goal from the Parisians.

Courtois pointed out that Hakimi “always had a lot of time”, while PSG head coach called the right-back and Nuno Mendes the best full-back pairing in the world.

“They are the two best full-backs in the world, each one plays a different role,” said Enrique.

“But they all have to attack and they all have to defend, that is something that represents our club, to work in attack and defense.

“As I'm at a club that has very good economic conditions we can sign very good players, Haki has the freedom to be whatever he wants to be and Nuno has a lot of ability to attack, we love it.

“The team thrives very well on the quality of our players, especially our full-backs. I think our team represents that concept well.”

Enrique also confirmed Courtois’ analysis of PSG’s pressure, insisting they will always give their best against big teams.

He added: “We didn't put the brakes on. My mobile phone is full of messages from Barca [Barcelona] fans congratulating me. When you play against the big teams you give 100%. Real Madrid is and will be great.