Late Drama as Belgium Break Senegal Hearts in World Cup Thriller

Belgium produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, overturning a two-goal deficit to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time in their Round of 32 clash.

Youri Tielemans converted a 125th-minute penalty to complete the turnaround and extend Belgium’s unbeaten run to 17 matches.

Senegal looked destined for victory after Habib Diarra struck in the first half and Ismaïla Sarr doubled the lead early in the second, equalling Roger Milla’s record for most goals by an African player at a single World Cup.

But Belgium’s substitutes turned the tide, with Romelu Lukaku pulling one back before Tielemans headed in Leandro Trossard’s cross to level the score.

Extra time saw both sides push for a winner, with Senegal’s Ibrahim Mbaye and Belgium’s Dodi Lukébakio coming agonisingly close.

The decisive moment arrived deep into stoppage time when VAR confirmed Lamine Camara’s foul on Tielemans in the box.

The midfielder kept his composure to send goalkeeper Mory Diaw the wrong way and fire Belgium into the last 16.

Senegal, who had hoped to emulate their famous 2002 quarter-final run, were left to rue missed chances and suffered their fifth consecutive World Cup defeat against European opposition.

Belgium, meanwhile, will return to Seattle to face the winner of the United States vs Bosnia & Herzegovina tie, as their veteran stars continue their pursuit of one last shot at glory.