In the first round of the 2025 Club World Cup Group H match, Real Madrid took the lead with a goal from Gonzalo Garcia, but the opponent scored a penalty kick later and finally tied with Al-Hilal 1-1. Although they failed to get all three points, Courtois said that the team performed very well in the second half, and as long as they maintain this performance, it will help in the next game.

In the 34th minute, Rodrigo made a diagonal pass to the penalty area, and Gonzalo Garcia, who was unguarded, seized the opportunity and shot into the goal, helping Real Madrid take the lead 1-0. In the 41st minute, Asensio brought down Marcos Leonardo, and the referee awarded a penalty to Al-Hilal. Subsequently, Ruben Neves took the penalty and scored, helping Al-Hilal tie the score 1-1.

In the 88th minute of the second half, Al-Hilal winger Al-Qahtani hit Fran Garcia's face with his arm while fighting for the ball, giving Real Madrid a penalty kick. Unfortunately, Valverde's penalty was blocked by Al-Hilal goalkeeper Bounou.

In the end, Real Madrid drew 1-1 with Al Hilal.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Courtois said, "We played slowly in the first half and the opponent looked more threatening. We scored the first goal, but then gave away a bad penalty kick, allowing the opponent to equalize the score. In the second half, we corrected what needed to be adjusted, the rhythm became faster, and the movements were more flexible."

"We were full of threats but we couldn't convert them into victory. It's a shame to miss that penalty, but if we can continue to play like we did in the second half, it will definitely help the next game. We were better in the second half and that's the direction we have to stick to next."

In addition, Arnold and Dean Huissen, who joined Real Madrid earlier, made their debut in this game and both started.

Speaking about his new teammates, Courtois said: "This is the first time we have played together. It is not easy, but they performed well. If there is any room for improvement, we will analyze it by reviewing the video, and this is a good debut for them."

As for the penalty that Valverde missed, Courtois said, "Valverde's shot was very powerful, and the opponent's goalkeeper made a judgment and saved the ball. Although it is a pity, Valverde must look forward."

"We need to organize the offense through passing the ball instead of attacking directly as soon as we get the ball, because sometimes we should control the ball to open up space. If the tempo is too fast, it will be more difficult to pass the ball well, but we did better in this regard in the second half."