In one of the most dramatic knockout matches of the World Cup, Belgium produced a stunning turnaround to defeat Senegal 3–2 after extra time in a pulsating last-32 encounter.
For much of the match, Senegal looked in control. Goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaïla Sarr had put them firmly in command, and with just minutes left in normal time, they appeared set to knock Belgium out of the competition.
Belgium’s revival began late in the 86th minute, with substitute Romelu Lukaku making an immediate impact. He reduced the deficit by flicking in a cross from Thomas Meunier, offering a lifeline when defeat seemed imminent.
Momentum suddenly shifted. In the 89th minute, Leandro Trossard delivered a dangerous ball into the area, and as Senegal goalkeeper Mory Diaw failed to deal with it, Belgium struck again. Youri Tielemans rose to head home the equaliser, dragging the match into extra time in extraordinary fashion.
Extra time brought even more drama. Belgium thought they might have edged ahead when Dodi Lukebakio saw a shot clip the crossbar, but the decisive moment came soon after. Following a VAR review, the referee awarded a penalty after a sliding challenge on Tielemans by Lamine Camara.
In the 125th minute, Tielemans stepped up and kept his composure, sending the penalty into the top corner to complete Belgium’s remarkable comeback and seal their place in the last 16.
The victory sends Belgium through to face either United States or Bosnia and Herzegovina on Tuesday, 7 July, with momentum firmly on their side after one of the tournament’s most unforgettable escapes.
For Senegal, it is a heartbreaking exit after what had been a commanding and disciplined performance for much of the match, ultimately undone by a late collapse and extra-time heartbreak.
