Belgium stages stunning comeback to deny Senegal World Cup Last 16 spot

Belgium mounted an incredible comeback to snatch a 3-2 victory from Senegal in extra time, advancing to the World Cup's Last 16. Senegal, known as the Teranga Lions, had dominated the match, leading 2-0 for a significant portion of the game. Goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaïla Sarr had put them in a commanding position.

However, substitute Romelu Lukaku ignited Belgium's revival with two goals in the 86th and 89th minutes, forcing the match into extra time. The decisive moment came in the 125th minute when Youri Tielemans converted a penalty, awarded after a VAR review, sending Belgium into the next round. This dramatic turnaround contrasted with a similar penalty incident in the AFCON 2025 final, where Senegal had protested. This time, they argued but ultimately accepted the decision.

Senegal's exit was a bitter end to their World Cup adventure, having come so close to reaching the knockout stage. They had navigated a tough group, facing strong opponents like France and Norway. Despite controlling the game for 86 minutes and hitting the post twice, two lapses in concentration proved costly. For Lukaku, this performance signaled his continued value despite past struggles at club level. Belgium, meanwhile, advanced as group winners, having finished third in the previous World Cup.

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he still has so much to offer despite his inability to recreate those moments that made him Special at Stamford Bridge.