Belgium produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, fighting back from two goals down to defeat Senegal 3–2 after extra time and secure a place in the Round of 16.
The thrilling Round of 32 encounter at Lumen Field in Seattle looked destined to end in Senegal’s favour for much of the contest before Belgium mounted a late rescue act.
Senegal took control early and deservedly opened the scoring in the 25th minute through Habib Diarra. The African side extended their advantage shortly after the restart when Ismaila Sarr found the net in the 51st minute, leaving Belgium staring at a shock exit.
With time running out and Belgium trailing 2–0 entering the closing stages, the momentum suddenly shifted.
Romelu Lukaku came off the bench to pull one back in the 86th minute, giving Belgium renewed hope. Just three minutes later, Youri Tielemans completed the comeback with an equaliser to force extra time and stun the Senegal supporters.
Extra time remained tense as both sides searched for a winner and penalties appeared inevitable.
The decisive moment arrived late in the additional period when Tielemans was brought down inside the area following a challenge from Lamine Camara. After an extended VAR review, the referee awarded Belgium a penalty.
The decision sparked debate, with opinions divided over whether the contact justified the spot-kick.
Tielemans remained composed under pressure and converted from the penalty spot in the 125th minute to complete Belgium’s remarkable turnaround.
The victory sends Belgium into the Round of 16, where they will face the United States in Seattle in another highly anticipated knockout clash.
For Senegal, the defeat marked a painful end to a campaign that had promised so much after leading comfortably for most of the match.
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