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Thibaut Courtois says Belgium are outsiders, not favourites at the World Cup

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Thibaut Courtois explains why Belgium cannot be considered as one of the favourites to win the World Cup

Belgium goalkeeper says Roberto Martinez's side should be considered outsiders rather than one of favourites to win the World Cup.

Courtois, 26, played down Belgium's chances of winning the tournament for the first time ahead of their opening fixture against Panama in Sochi on Monday.

"I think we have the quality and talent. We have a group of players who know each other very well and most of us are in good form," he said.

Vincent Kompany (L) and Thomas Vermaelen are battling injuries
Image: Vincent Kompany (L) and Thomas Vermaelen are battling injuries and are expected to miss the Panama game

"We feel confident but I wouldn't call us the big, big favourite. I think we are outsiders to win. We have a chance to go far and we have to believe.

"We are not going to say that we will win or that we are the best team. We have the quality to go far and we believe in ourselves. Belief is the beginning of everything."

Belgium's best result at a World Cup was when they finished in 1986.

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They were eliminated at the quarter-final stage in Brazil four years ago after failing to qualify for the tournament in 2006 and 2010.

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