Paris, May 29 (BNA) Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois feels he will finally get the respect he deserves after his performance as man of the match helped the La Liga champions secure their record victory in the 14th European Cup on Saturday.
Real Madrid beat Liverpool 1-0 in the Champions League final thanks to Vinicius Junior’s goal, but the Belgian’s saves made the difference at the Stade de France.
Courtois said after saving nine times.
“I am really happy and proud of the team’s performance. We beat the best clubs in the world. (Manchester) City and Liverpool have been fantastic this season. Liverpool played a great game, but we had one chance and we scored it.”
Courtois, Chelsea’s 2011-18 goalkeeper, said his first save, when he blocked Salah early, gave him the confidence he needed for the rest of the match.
“It’s unbelievable, so many years, so much work. Come to the club in my life. I saw so many criticizing me. Today we showed who is the king of Europe,” he said.
“I’ve felt really good the last few weeks. Once you stop for the first time. Nobody can take away my desire to win the Champions League.”
There was only one downside to Courtois – he missed his brother’s wedding but promised to make up for his absence.
“I feel sorry for my brother who is getting married tomorrow and I can’t be there,” he said. “On Monday there’s another civil marriage and I’ll be there.”