Controversial late Tielemans penalty caps Belgium comeback over Senegal

Belgium snatched a dramatic 3-2 victory from the jaws of defeat against Senegal, advancing to the last 16 of the World Cup thanks to two late goals and a highly contentious penalty in the 122nd minute. The match, a see-sawing classic, saw Belgium trail 2-0 with only minutes remaining in normal time.

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Belgium 3 (Lukaku 86, Tielemans 89, 120+5 pen) Senegal 2 (Diarra 25, Sarr 51) (after extra-time; 2-2 at 90 mins)

Senegal had taken a deserved lead through Habib Diarra in the 25th minute, with Ismaïla Sarr doubling their advantage in the 51st minute. Belgium, who had struggled to find rhythm for much of the game, appeared headed for an early exit. However, a tactical shift by coach Rudi Garcia, introducing substitutes like Romelu Lukaku and Dodi Lukebakio, ignited a stunning turnaround.

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For Belgium, it was a get-out-of-jail card, Tielemans converting the spot-kick to propel Rudi Garcia’s side into the last 16.

Lukaku, a half-time substitute, halved the deficit in the 86th minute, converting a cross from fellow substitute Thomas Meunier. Just three minutes later, Youri Tielemans equalized with a brave header from a Trossard cross, sending the match into extra time. The Aston Villa midfielder had instructed Trossard precisely where to deliver the ball.

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After 85 minutes, they trailed Senegal 2-0.

The drama, however, was not over. With penalties looming, the referee awarded Belgium a stoppage-time penalty after VAR intervention highlighted a foul on Tielemans. The decision was fiercely debated, but Tielemans converted the spot-kick to seal a remarkable comeback and a place in the next round, much to the relief of the Belgian bench, where Garcia himself was booked amid the celebrations.

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Lukaku replaced the ineffective Charles De Ketelaere and had a slow-burn impact, eventually making his presence felt, converting another substitute Thomas Meunier’s cross at the front post.