Former Real Madrid midfielders point fingers at one player after Declan Rice free kicks | OneFootball

Thibaut Courtois came under fire from two former Real Madrid icons, Clarence Seedorf and Wesley Sneijder, following his performance in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg at the Emirates Stadium.

The Belgian goalkeeper conceded two goals from direct free-kicks scored by Declan Rice, who was hailed across Europe for his outstanding display, but not everyone was fully convinced that Courtois did all he could to prevent the goals.

Wesley Sneijder, never shy to share a blunt opinion, questioned the level of difficulty attributed to Rice’s efforts and directly pointed fingers at Courtois and the defensive setup.

“I don’t see those as very impressive pitches,” Sneijder stated.

“It might sound a bit crazy to say this—it looks very difficult, but it’s very easy to hit the ball with that curve when you know how to shoot, and I know a lot about that. The wall is to blame.”

Analysing the setup

Sneijder didn’t stop there. He analysed the second goal—one that nestled into the top corner—and felt Courtois’ positioning was once again questionable.

Thibaut Courtois came under fire. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

“You see Courtois take a step to the right, which means he has no options in his own area. That’s because of the uncertainty after the first goal.

“That’s why he’s taking a gamble. If he trusts his wall and stays on his side, he has the ball.”

Seedorf’s take

Backing Sneijder’s take, Clarence Seedorf added his own thoughts, suggesting Courtois failed to adequately organise his defence and was left exposed.

“Rice read the situation well, he saw the space, but Courtois didn’t cover the area well with only four players. Still, you have to shoot well. You have to give him credit for that—for the confidence with which he hits the ball.”

While Rice’s brace from set-pieces dominated headlines and wowed spectators, the analysis from these Dutch legends will give Real Madrid something to think about ahead of the second leg.

For Courtois, whose return from injury had been met with optimism, the comments from Seedorf and Sneijder serve as a reminder that expectations remain high, especially in Champions League ties of this magnitude.

Source: SPORT