World Cup: Belgium stage dramatic comeback to eliminate Senegal after extra time

Belgium achieved a stunning 3-2 victory over Senegal after extra time in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing their place in the Round of 16. The Red Devils fought back from a two-goal deficit in a match that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.

Senegal initially dominated the game, taking a deserved lead through Habib Diarra early on, and doubling their advantage six minutes into the second half with a goal from Ismaïla Sarr. Sarr's strike marked his fourth goal of the tournament, equalling a record held by African legend Roger Milla.

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Youri Tielemans converted a dramatic penalty in the 125th minute to seal Belgium’s victory and extend the Red Devils’ unbeaten run to 17 matches.

Facing elimination, Belgium's manager Rudi Garcia made crucial substitutions that turned the tide. Romelu Lukaku ignited the comeback with a clinical finish, followed by Tielemans' equalizer, forcing the match into extra time. The decisive moment came in the dying minutes when a VAR review confirmed a penalty for Belgium. Youri Tielemans calmly converted the spot-kick in the 125th minute, sealing a remarkable turnaround.

The defeat ends Senegal's hopes of replicating their historic 2002 quarter-final run. Belgium, meanwhile, extends their unbeaten streak to 17 matches and now prepares to face either the United States or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the next round.

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The goal was Sarr’s fourth of the tournament, equalling Roger Milla’s record for the most goals scored by an African player at a single World Cup.