BELGIUM produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the FIFA World Cup to overturn a two-goal deficit and defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time, with captain Youri Tielemans converting a decisive penalty in the 125th minute to secure a place in the last 16.
Rudi Garcia's side appeared destined for elimination after Senegal established a commanding advantage, only for Belgium to mount a thrilling late fightback by scoring twice in the closing minutes of normal time before sealing victory with virtually the final kick of the match.
Tielemans kept his composure from the penalty spot after winning the spot-kick himself when he was brought down inside the penalty area. The referee awarded the penalty following a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review, allowing the Belgium captain to complete a memorable turnaround.
Senegal had taken control of the contest in the 25th minute when Habib Diarra reacted quickest to convert the rebound after Ismaila Sarr's header struck the post.
The African side doubled their lead six minutes into the second half as Sarr unleashed a powerful strike beyond Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, putting Senegal firmly on course for a famous victory.
Belgium, however, refused to surrender. Substitute Romelu Lukaku sparked the comeback with an 86th-minute goal before Tielemans levelled the match less than three minutes later, forcing the contest into extra time.
With penalties looming, Belgium earned one final opportunity deep into added time when Tielemans was fouled inside the box. The midfielder stepped up to convert from the spot in the 125th minute, completing an extraordinary recovery and securing Belgium's passage to the knockout phase.
Belgium will now remain in Seattle to face the winners of the match between the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina on 7 July for a place in the World Cup quarter-finals. - July 2, 2026
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