World Cup: Belgium stages late comeback, wins with historic penalty

Belgium achieved a stunning turnaround against Senegal, coming back from a two-goal deficit to win 3-2 in a dramatic World Cup encounter. Senegal had controlled the match and appeared to be heading for a comfortable victory, leading 2-0 with just five minutes remaining in regulation time.

However, Romelu Lukaku ignited the comeback in the 86th minute, narrowing the gap. Three minutes later, a cross from Leandro Trossard saw Senegalese goalkeeper Mory Diaw misjudge the flight of the ball, allowing Youri Tielemans to head it into the net, leveling the score at 2-2 and forcing the match into extra time.

The decisive moment arrived in the dying minutes of extra time when Lamine Camara of Senegal fouled Tielemans inside the penalty area. Initially, no penalty was awarded, but a video review prompted the referee to change the decision. Tielemans calmly converted the penalty, securing Belgium's advancement with the latest match-winning goal in World Cup history, as reported by ESPN.

The match also saw controversy regarding a defensive play by Senegal's Pathe Ciss. Just before the penalty was taken, Ciss lay on the ground near the penalty spot, seemingly attempting to distract Tielemans. Sky Sports reporter Charlotte Marsh criticized this as unsportsmanlike conduct, noting the minimal contact involved and Ciss's exaggerated reaction.

Belgium is set to face the United States in the next round of the tournament.

“

Ciss from really unsportsmanlike behaviour. There is contact, but it is minimal – it should never result in anything, other than him looking like a fool.