Belgium completed one of the most dramatic comebacks of the FIFA World Cup so far, overturning a two-goal deficit in the closing minutes before defeating Senegal 3-2 after extra time thanks to a late penalty from Youri Tielemans.
The victory sends Belgium into the Round of 16, where they will face the winner of the match between the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
For much of the contest in Seattle, Belgium appeared destined for elimination. Senegal controlled the game and deservedly established a two-goal lead through Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr, while Belgium struggled to create meaningful chances.
Senegal nearly opened the scoring even earlier when Sarr struck the post before firing another effort against the woodwork from a header shortly afterward. Diarra eventually converted from close range after Sarr’s second effort rebounded into his path.
Just six minutes into the second half, Senegal doubled their advantage in spectacular fashion. Moussa Niakhate launched a long pass over the Belgian defence, allowing Sarr to chest the ball down before powering a superb finish beyond Thibaut Courtois.
Belgium finally sparked into life in the closing stages. Veteran striker Romelu Lukaku, introduced at half-time after returning from an injury-hit season, flicked Thomas Meunier’s cross into the net in the 86th minute to reduce the deficit.
Three minutes later, Leandro Trossard delivered a dangerous cross that goalkeeper Mory Diaw failed to deal with, allowing captain Tielemans to head home the equaliser and force extra time.
The dramatic turnaround came despite visible frustration within the Belgian squad, with Tielemans and Trossard involved in a heated exchange before a second-half hydration break, an incident that required Lukaku to intervene.
With penalties appearing inevitable, Belgium found one final opportunity deep into stoppage time of extra time. After a lengthy seven-minute VAR review, referee awarded Belgium a penalty for Lamine Camara’s challenge on Tielemans moments before Dodi Lukebakio’s shot clipped the crossbar.
Tielemans remained composed under immense pressure, sending his spot-kick into the top corner in the 125th minute to complete Belgium’s remarkable escape.
The comeback keeps alive the World Cup ambitions of Belgium’s remaining experienced stars, including Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne, who was substituted during the second half despite his visible disappointment.
For Senegal, the defeat added another painful chapter after recent international heartbreak. Having lost the Africa Cup of Nations title following a controversial decision earlier this year, they looked on course for a memorable World Cup victory before Belgium’s late surge transformed the match.
After dominating for more than 80 minutes, Senegal were left to reflect on a missed opportunity as Belgium breathed new life into their campaign with an unforgettable comeback.