Belgian keeper Thibaut Courtois revealed that playing with Real Madrid fulfilled his childhood dream of seeing action in the ElClasico.

“When I was a kid, or even when I was playing with Chelsea, I always watch it on TV,” shared Courtois.

“Games like this are very special, you dream of playing in them.”

As it continues to be a tight race for the overall LaLiga title between the top two squads, the element of surprise fuels Courtois’ excitement for the game.

“ElClasico is a key game. It’s the first clash of the giants. Competition is always good for the game. One day one team is better, another day the other team is better,” added the 2018 FIFA World Cup Golden Glove winner.

Though he’s considered one of the top goalkeepers in the world, facing six-time Ballon d’Or awardee Lionel Messi remains to be the greatest challenge for him.

“You might think he’s going to do one thing and at the last moment he does something else,” Courtois said of the Barcelona great.

“Still, it’s worth studying him all the same.”

Courtois aims to keep up his good work for 2019-2020 LaLiga champion Real Madrid to show runner-up Barcelona that they can defend the title.

The first ElClasico of the season happens this Saturday, October 24 at 10 pm, Manila time. – Rappler.com

Watch ElClasico live this Saturday, October 24 at 10pm on beIN Sports channels (Sky and Cignal) and on beIN Sports Connect platform.