​Belgium staged a dramatic comeback to beat Senegal 3-2 after extra time in a World Cup last-32 clash, with Youri Tielemans converting a late penalty in the 125th minute to seal the victory. The result booked Belgium a last-16 meeting with either the United States or Bosnia-Herzegovina. Rudi Garcia’s side had appeared set to exit after trailing Senegal 2-0 with only four minutes of normal time remaining. Half-time substitute Romelu Lukaku flicked in Thomas Meunier’s cross to give Belgium a glimmer of hope, and they seized the opportunity in the 89th minute when Leandro Trossard’s cross was mishandled by goalkeeper Mory Diaw, allowing captain Tielemans to head home and level the score at 2-2, sending the match into extra time. Earlier, Lukaku and Tielemans had sparked controversy with a heated exchange during the second-half hydration break, before Lukaku stepped in to defuse the tension.
Senegal had deservedly led through goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr, who struck the woodwork early and again later in the first half after a Sadio Mané cross found Sarr. Belgium’s comeback was completed when Dodi Lukebakio’s shot struck the crossbar and a seven-minute VAR review pointed to a penalty for a sliding challenge on Tielemans by Lamine Camara just before that chance. Tielemans calmly slotted the spot-kick high into the top corner to secure the win for Belgium.
The result marked the latest-ever World Cup winner, comeback, and controversy for Senegal. Belgium’s aging golden generation continues to be seen as unfulfilled potential, with Lukaku delivering the decisive inspiration alongside Kevin De Bruyne, even as he left the field early in the second half amid frustration. For Senegal, it was another heartbreaking exit on the world stage, despite promising early pressure, including a Sarr effort that hit the post and another chance saved by Diarra, as the team looked for a run that could redeem their Africa Cup of Nations disappointment.