Real Madrid’s derby clash with Atletico Madrid ended in a 1-1 draw, but the result wasn’t the only blow for Los Blancos. Manager Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois picked up an injury, leaving fans anxious ahead of a packed schedule.
It seemed like Real Madrid were on track to take all three points after Eder Militao’s 64th-minute goal gave them the lead.
But in true derby fashion, Atletico Madrid fought back, with Angel Correa netting a dramatic equaliser - complete with a nerve-shredding VAR check - deep into stoppage time. It was a tough pill to swallow for Los Blancos, especially with their eyes on closing the gap on La Liga leaders Barcelona.
🚨⚪️ Real Madrid confirm that Thibaut Courtois has been diagnosed with an injury to the abductor muscle of his left leg.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 30, 2024
He’s not expected to return before the end of the international break. pic.twitter.com/R3ebSuqMtW
Adding salt to the wound, Courtois, who had been targeted by objects thrown from the crowd earlier in the match, sustained a muscle injury.
Ancelotti confirmed that the Belgian shot-stopper could not take goal or free kicks in the final minutes of the game. Courtois will now undergo assessments to determine if he’ll be fit for Madrid's next two matches before the international break.
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Tough times ahead for Madrid
The timing couldn’t be worse for Real Madrid, as they prepare for a critical Champions League clash against Lille and a La Liga face-off with Villarreal.
With Courtois a doubt, backup keeper Andriy Lunin may be called upon to step up for his first appearance of the season.
Lunin stepped up impressively as Madrid plotted a path to the Champions League final before Courtois returned for the 2-0 triumph over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley.
Will Real Madrid rise above the pressure, or is this the start of a tough stretch for Ancelotti’s side?
