FIFA WC: Belgium complete epic comeback over Senegal to reach last-16
Seattle, July 2
Belgium achieved the near-impossible, coming back from 2-0 down with five minutes to go to overcome Senegal at the Seattle Stadium and secure a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16.
Belgium looked down and out as the clock ticked past the 85-minute mark and they were 2-0 behind. A Romelu Lukaku goal gave them hope before Youri Tielemans headed them level.
Penalties were on the horizon as the game headed towards the end of extra-time, but there was to be more drama. Belgium were awarded a penalty following a VAR review, and Tielemans converted to spark scenes of wild celebration.
This is the second time Belgium have recovered from a two-goal deficit to win a World Cup knockout match after their 3-2 victory over Japan in the 2018 round of 16.
Senegal made the brighter start and took the lead after 26 minutes when Habib Diarra reacted quickest to convert the rebound after a header had struck the post. Belgium created a number of chances before half-time, including a long-range effort from Maxim De Cuyper, but were unable to find an equaliser.
Head coach Rudi Garcia introduced Romelu Lukaku at the start of the second half, but Senegal doubled their advantage shortly afterwards through Ismaila Sarr, leaving Belgium with a mountain to climbBelgium appeared to be down and out but refused to give up. In the 86th minute, Lukaku turned home a cross from Thomas Meunier to reduce the deficit. Just three minutes later, Tielemans headed in a cross from Leandro Trossard to level the scores and force extra time.
With the game looking destined to be decided by penalty kicks, there was still time for more drama as Tielemans was brought down in the box and stepped up to fire home the penalty following a VAR review.
Senegal had one final opportunity from a free-kick, but it came to nothing. At the final whistle, the Red Devils celebrated a memorable comeback.
Belgium will remain in Seattle to play their Round of 16 match on 6 July against either hosts USA or Bosnia and Herzegovina.
— IANS
Reader Comments
What a comeback! As a football fan in India, it's matches like these that make me love the sport even more. Senegal will be heartbroken though—they played so well for 85 minutes. Football is truly unpredictable.
Epic game! VAR has been controversial but today it worked for Belgium. Still, I feel for Senegal—they deserved at least a draw. The way Tielemans kept his cool under pressure was world-class. Reminds me of those tense penalty shootouts in ISL.
Honestly, Senegal's defensive lapse in the last 10 minutes was shocking. They had the game in their hands and threw it away. Belgium's experience showed. Hope the US or Bosnia give them a tough fight in the next round! 🇧🇪🇸🇳
What a night for football lovers in India! Stayed up till 2 AM and it was totally worth it. Belgium's mentality is incredible. Senegal, take a bow—you made this match unforgettable. Football, bloody hell! 🔥⚽
Respect to both teams. Senegal's start was brilliant—they controlled the game for so long. But Belgium's depth and never-say-die attitude won the day. VAR decision was correct but painful for Senegal. Classic World Cup drama!
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