Belgium secured a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over Senegal, with a penalty deep into added time sending the Red Devils through to the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Seattle Stadium in the United States.
Senegal took the lead in the 24th minute through Habib Diarra, although much of the credit belonged to Ismaila Sarr. The forward rose highest to meet a cross and saw his header strike the post, but Diarra reacted quickest to the rebound and fired home to give the Lions of Teranga a deserved advantage.
Senegal were the more energetic and adventurous side throughout the first half, while Belgium struggled to find their rhythm. Diarra's goal reflected the balance of play, with Senegal creating the better chances and limiting the Red Devils to only a handful of half-opportunities that failed to seriously test Mory Diaw. Belgium improved after falling behind and gradually grew into the contest, but Senegal deservedly led at the break.
The Lions of Teranga doubled their advantage in the 51st minute with a brilliant individual effort from Sarr. Moussa Niakhate launched a superb long ball over the Belgian defense, which Sarr expertly controlled with his chest before drilling a powerful shot beyond Thibaut Courtois.
Belgium looked destined for elimination until Romelu Lukaku pulled one back in the 86th minute, arriving to convert Thomas Meunier's cross and breathe new life into his side.
The comeback continued three minutes later when captain Youri Tielemans equalized with a courageous header. Holding off two Senegal defenders and goalkeeper Mory Diaw, he guided the ball into the net to complete a remarkable late fightback after Senegal had appeared to be in complete control. The match subsequently went into extra time.
In the closing moments of the second period of extra time, Tielemans was brought down inside Senegal's penalty area by Lamine Camara. Following a lengthy VAR review, the referee awarded a penalty. Tielemans calmly converted the spot kick in the 125th minute, completing Belgium's stunning comeback, securing their place in the Round of 16, and ending Senegal's World Cup campaign.
Belgium will face the United States in the Round of 16.
