2026 FIFA World Cup – Round of 32
Belgium 3-2 Senegal (AET)
Seattle, USA: Belgium produced one of the greatest comebacks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after overturning a two-goal deficit to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time and book their place in the Round of 16.
The Red Devils looked destined for an early exit after a dominant first-half display by the Lions of Teranga, but an inspired second-half revival capped by Youri Tielemans’ extra-time penalty completed a remarkable turnaround at Lumen Field on Wednesday.
Senegal made the brighter start and deservedly took the lead in the 24th minute when Mouhamadou Diarra finished off a well-worked move to silence the Belgian supporters.
The African side continued to dictate the tempo with disciplined defending and dangerous attacking play, doubling their advantage five minutes into the second half through Ismaïla Sarr, whose powerful finish left Belgium with a mountain to climb.
With Senegal firmly in control, Belgium coach Rudi Garcia responded by introducing Romelu Lukaku at half-time, a decision that completely changed the complexion of the contest.
The experienced striker immediately gave Senegal’s defence new problems with his physical presence and movement, while Belgium gradually began to dominate possession.
Another tactical switch, the introduction of Thomas Meunier in the closing stages, injected fresh energy down the right flank as Belgium searched desperately for a route back into the game.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 85th minute when Lukaku tapped home from close range to halve the deficit and ignite Belgium’s comeback.
Just three minutes later, Meunier delivered an inviting cross that Tielemans powered into the net to make it 2-2, stunning a Senegal side that had appeared in complete control for much of the match.
With momentum firmly on Belgium’s side, the contest moved into extra time.
Both teams created opportunities, but clear chances remained scarce as fatigue began to take its toll.
The decisive moment came three minutes from the end of extra time when Lamine Camara brought down Tielemans inside the penalty area.
Following a VAR review, the referee pointed to the spot.
Tielemans kept his composure under immense pressure, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way with a perfectly placed penalty in the 117th minute to complete one of the tournament’s most dramatic recoveries.
Belgium’s victory means the Red Devils advance to the Round of 16, where they will face the winner of the Round of 32 clash between the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
For Senegal, the defeat marked a heartbreaking end to a campaign that had promised so much after their outstanding first-half performance.
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