World Cup 2026: Rudi Garcia says Senegal’s defensive mindset sparked Belgium comeback

Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia believes Senegal’s decision to protect their two-goal advantage ultimately handed the Red Devils a route back into their dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory in the World Cup Round of 32.

The Lions of Teranga appeared to be cruising towards the quarter-finals after goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr established a commanding 2-0 lead in Seattle, with Senegal dominating large portions of the contest and limiting Belgium’s attacking threat.

However, Romelu Lukaku struck in the 86th minute before Youri Tielemans levelled three minutes later, setting the stage for an extraordinary finale that ended with Tielemans converting a controversial stoppage-time penalty in extra time.

Reflecting on the comeback, Garcia pointed to a decisive tactical shift from the Senegalese side.

“Senegal lost their structure at the end of the match. They wanted to hold the score at 0-2, which was a big mistake in my opinion. That gave us confidence. Because from that 1-2, the match changed.”

The Belgian manager praised his players for maintaining belief despite being thoroughly outplayed for long stretches. His substitutions, particularly the introductions of Lukaku, Nico Raskin and Dodi Lukebakio, transformed the momentum of the contest.

Garcia had warned before kick-off that Senegal were much stronger than their third-place finish in Group I suggested, describing them as fast, physical and technically gifted. Those predictions proved accurate as the African side controlled midfield and exposed Belgium’s weaknesses for much of the evening.

Yet, according to Garcia, Senegal’s decision to retreat and protect their advantage rather than continue pressing allowed Belgium to rediscover confidence.

The Red Devils had entered the knockout phase after a mixed group campaign that included draws against Egypt and Iran before a convincing 5-1 victory over New Zealand secured top spot in Group G. Garcia insisted throughout that his side would improve as injured players regained full fitness, and their remarkable comeback offered further evidence of Belgium’s experience in tournament football.

For Senegal, the defeat was heartbreaking. Pape Thiaw’s men had recovered from defeats to France and Norway by thrashing Iraq 5-0 to reach the knockout rounds and looked set to continue their journey before Belgium’s late resurgence changed everything.