Belgium produced a dramatic late comeback to defeat Senegal 3–2 after extra time in a pulsating 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash.
The victory saw Belgium overturn a two-goal deficit to book a place in the Round of 16, while Senegal were left to rue missed opportunities after dominating much of the match.
Senegal began brightly and took control in the 25th minute when Habib Diarra opened the scoring. The Teranga Lions maintained their intensity and discipline, unsettling Belgium throughout the first half.
Their dominance continued after the break, with Ismaïla Sarr doubling the lead in the 51st minute from close range, following a well-timed assist from Moussa Niakhaté.
At 2–0 down, Belgium struggled to find rhythm, prompting head coach Rudi Garcia to make several tactical changes, including introducing Romelu Lukaku, Nicolas Raskin, Dodi Lukebakio, and Diego Moreira in search of a response.
Senegal also reshuffled their lineup, but Belgium gradually gained momentum as the game wore on.
The turnaround began in the 86th minute when Lukaku pulled one back, shifting the momentum firmly in Belgium’s favour.
“Romelu’s goal changed the momentum and gave us the confidence to keep fighting,” the Belgian coach said.
Just three minutes later, Youri Tielemans completed the comeback with a composed finish, assisted by Leandro Trossard, sending the match into extra time.
Belgium appeared more composed in the additional period despite growing fatigue on both sides.
Their persistence paid off deep into extra time when Tielemans converted a penalty in the 120+5th minute to complete the remarkable turnaround.
The result secured Belgium’s progression to the Round of 16, with their experience and squad depth proving decisive.
Senegal, meanwhile, exited the tournament with disappointment after surrendering a commanding lead but earned praise for a spirited performance against one of Europe’s football heavyweights.
The match once again highlighted the unpredictable nature of knockout football at the World Cup.
Source: NAN
