This article contains adult content that may be inappropriate for minors. Please confirm that you are 18 years or older to continue. This article contains images or details that some readers may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised. Despite Vinícius being the center of attention with a late goal in the match against Benfica, which concluded the tie, Thibaut Courtois also stood out, especially in the first half, thanks to a spectacular save in the 38th minute that proved decisive. At the end of the match, the Belgian goalkeeper explained the moment. "I saw a photo and I saved it well… The ball goes through my legs and I am well positioned down low, ready to save," he stated to Movistar Plus+ Deportes. When asked how a goalkeeper of his height can be so agile, Courtois revealed the secret: "It's the genes of my parents, who played volleyball. And I also played. It's a save where you pull your leg back, and that way, you get to the ground quickly. It's a technique I learned at Chelsea and that is sometimes useful for us…" Satisfied with the qualification, the keeper is already anticipating a likely clash with Manchester City, an opponent that Real Madrid has faced six times in the last seven editions of the Champions League. "We will meet them, yes," joked the Belgian, who added: "But it's been a long time since I played against Sporting, they have a beautiful stadium. They are a tough opponent, doing very well in the Portuguese league, but we have played a lot against Manchester City, it's the dream lottery match." Despite the victory, Courtois acknowledged that the team needs to improve its performance. "We lack fluidity and speed with the ball. We need to circulate it more from side to side, move them around more. If we take too long to pass, the opponent settles in, that's what the coach asks of us. I think we are not playing brilliantly, but what matters now is winning."
Sporting Benfica remains central to this story.
Sporting Benfica remains central to this story.
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