Belgium stage dramatic comeback to eliminate Senegal, reach Round of 16

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Belgium produced a remarkable comeback from two goals down to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time on Wednesday, booking their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup following one of the tournament’s most dramatic knockout contests.

Senegal looked destined for a famous victory after dominating much of the match and opening a two-goal cushion through Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr, leaving the Red Devils staring at a shock exit.

Diarra gave the Lions of Teranga the lead midway through the first half after reacting quickest to a rebound inside the six-yard box before Sarr doubled the advantage early in the second period with a clinical finish from Moussa Niakhate’s lofted cross.

Belgium struggled to break down Senegal’s disciplined defence for much of the encounter, prompting coach Rudi Garcia to make a series of attacking substitutions, including the introduction of Romelu Lukaku, in a bid to revive his side’s fading hopes.

The changes transformed the contest.

Lukaku sparked the comeback in the 86th minute, volleying home Thomas Meunier’s cross before Youri Tielemans restored parity three minutes later with a powerful header from Leandro Trossard’s delivery to force extra time.

Both sides created opportunities during the additional 30 minutes, with Senegal pushing for a winner while Belgium came closest through Dodi Lukebakio, whose effort crashed against the crossbar.

The decisive moment came deep into extra time when a VAR review awarded Belgium a penalty after an infringement inside the box. Tielemans calmly converted from the spot in the 120th minute to complete the stunning turnaround and send Belgium into the last 16.

Despite the heartbreaking defeat, Senegal earned widespread praise for an energetic and resilient display that pushed one of Europe’s traditional football powers to the limit.