Belgium staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Senegal 3-2 in extra time during their Round of 32 match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Seattle. Trailing 2-0 with just minutes remaining, Belgium scored twice in the final four minutes of regulation through Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans to force extra time. Tielemans then converted a controversial penalty in the 125th minute, the latest goal in men's World Cup history, to secure the win.
Senegal had controlled much of the match, with Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr scoring in the first half. However, Belgium's late surge, fueled by a heated mid-match argument between Leandro Trossard and Tielemans that was calmed by Lukaku, shifted the momentum. The decisive penalty was awarded after a lengthy VAR review for a challenge by Senegal's Lamine Camara on Tielemans, a decision that drew criticism from Senegal's coach Pape Thiaw, who declined to comment on the officiating.
Belgium will now face the winner of the United States vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina match in the Round of 16. Coach Rudi Garcia praised his team's resilience, calling the victory a 'remontada' that could spark further success. Senegal, meanwhile, reflected on a cruel end to their campaign, with defender Krepin Diatta expressing disappointment over their failure to advance.
The match also saw a brief interruption due to pitch invaders, and Senegal fielded a slightly altered lineup, including the start of midfielder Pape Gueye. Belgium, despite a shaky group stage, showcased their depth and determination, with Tielemans and Lukaku leading the charge. The victory marks a potential turning point for Belgium, who had struggled in recent tournaments but now enter the knockout stage with renewed confidence.