World Cup 2026: Belgium complete stunning comeback against Senegal to reach Round of 16

Belgium produced a dramatic second-half revival on Wednesday night, coming from two goals down to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time in a thrilling Round of 32 encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The match, played at Lumen Field, swung wildly across 120 minutes before Belgium ultimately sealed qualification to the Round of 16 in the dying moments of extra time.

Senegal Make Fast Start and Punish Early Chances

Senegal began brightly and created the first major opening when Ismaila Sarr latched onto a rebound inside the box, only to fire narrowly wide of the right post.

Sarr remained a constant threat and came even closer shortly after, meeting a cross in the six-yard box but crashing his header against the post.

Senegal eventually broke the deadlock in the 25th minute when Habib Diarra reacted quickest to a rebound and slotted into an empty net after a deflected effort fell kindly into his path.

Sarr Extends Lead as Senegal Take Control

Belgium struggled to contain Senegal’s pace and movement, and the pressure told again early in the second half.

Moussa Niakhate delivered a precise lofted cross into the box, where Sarr controlled and finished clinically inside the right post to double Senegal’s advantage.

At 2-0, Senegal appeared firmly in control of the tie, while Belgium were left searching for a response.

Belgium Fight Back to Force Extra Time

Belgium gradually worked their way back into the contest, pushing forward in search of goals as the match opened up.

Dodi Lukebakio came close with a powerful effort from the edge of the box that whistled just wide, signalling Belgium’s growing momentum.

Senegal still had chances to seal the match, with Ibrahim Mbaye missing a key opportunity in the box, firing narrowly wide of the left post.

Belgium’s persistence eventually paid as goals from Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans forced the 90 minutes to end in a 2-2 draw.

Tielemans Seals Dramatic Late Victory

Extra time brought further tension, including a major VAR review in the final minutes after a possible foul inside the box.

The referee eventually awarded a penalty to Belgium in the 120th minute.

Youri Tielemans stepped up under immense pressure and converted calmly in the 120+5th minute to complete a stunning comeback.

Belgium Advance to Face USA or Bosnia

With the victory secured, Belgium progress to the Round of 16, where they will face the winner of the clash between the United States and Bosnia.

After a chaotic and emotional contest, Belgium’s resilience proved decisive as they overturned a two-goal deficit to keep their World Cup dream alive.