Belgium Stuns Senegal 3-2 on 125th-Minute Penalty
Photo: REUTERS
Belgium orchestrated a miraculous comeback to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time in a stunning turn of events at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Trailing by two goals late in the second half, the Red Devils snatched a Round of 16 berth through a dramatic 125th-minute penalty.
Senegal initially dominated the match, utilizing the blistering pace of Sadio Mane and Iliman Ndiaye down the wings. Habib Diarra broke the deadlock in the 25th minute, pouncing on a rebound after Ismaila Sarr struck the woodwork.
Sarr then doubled the advantage in the 51st minute, expertly cushioning a precise long ball from Moussa Niakhate with his chest before firing past Thibaut Courtois.
With elimination looming, Belgium’s substitutes saved their tournament. Romelu Lukaku provided a lifeline in the 86th minute following a setup by Thomas Meunier. Just three minutes later, Youri Tielemans headed home an inswinging cross from Leandro Trossard to force extra time.
The drama peaked in the final seconds of the extra period. A VAR review awarded Belgium a penalty after a foul on Tielemans, which he calmly converted to seal the victory.
Belgium remains in Seattle to face either the USA or Bosnia and Herzegovina on 6 July.
