'Same mistake twice!' - Thibaut Courtois calls out Raul Asencio for record-breaking red card against Pachuca but promises to 'fi
Thibaut Courtois didn’t hold back after Raul Asencio’s record-setting red card, calling out the young defender’s repeated errors.
Asencio saw red just seven minutes into Madrid’s Club World Cup clash with Pachuca after a reckless foul marking his second costly error in as many games. Courtois had to step up with a heroic performance, making 10 saves to help Madrid win 3-1 despite being a man down for nearly the entire match.
The 22-year-old's red card is now the fastest ever in any intercontinental club competition. The previous record was held by Al-Hilal’s Matheus Pereira, who was sent off in the 14th minute of the 2022 Club World Cup third-place match. This puts a spotlight on the risks of fielding inexperienced players in high-stakes tournaments. While Los Blancos managed the win, the early dismissal could have easily changed the game’s outcome.
Speaking to DAZN at half-time, Courtois said: "It's two games and the same mistake twice, which may be very minor, but we have to be smarter and not make that mistake."
Still, the Belgian backed the young defender, adding: "He knows it, and there's no problem. We're going to fight for him and win without him, and when he comes back, we'll keep winning."
Madrid will now prepare for their next Club World Cup match against Red Bull Salzburg, with Asencio suspended and a close eye on their defensive depth, Xabi Alonso may turn to his more experienced defenders as Los Blancos chase the trophy.