Published：Jul 1, 16:00Last updated：Jul 2, 07:39

Belgium's Dramatic Extra-Time Comeback Against Senegal in World Cup Round of 16

Jul. 1, 2026 16:00

Belgium staged a dramatic comeback against Senegal, scoring twice in the final minutes to force extra time before winning 3-2 with a蒂莱曼斯 penalty. The victory secures their place in the World Cup's knockout stage.

Summarized

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14Media

Jul. 2, 2026 07:30

The Round of 16 match between Belgium and Senegal at the 2026 World Cup will be remembered for its dramatic finish, with Belgium securing a 3-2 victory in extra time. The article recalls other thrilling matches from the tournament.

Jul. 2, 2026 07:39

Senegal's coach Aliou Cissé condemned a late penalty awarded to Belgium in their 3-2 World Cup round-of-16 defeat on July 1, 2026. Yuri Tielemans scored the decisive penalty in extra time after Senegal led 2-0 until the 86th minute. Cissé disputed the call but acknowledged his team's performance and the need to learn from mistakes.

Belgium staged a breathtaking comeback to defeat Senegal 3-2 in extra time during the World Cup round of 16, advancing to the knockout stage after overcoming a two-goal deficit. The match, filled with late drama, saw Belgium equalize in the 84th minute before Youri Tielemans secured victory with a penalty in the 125th minute. Senegal's coach Aliou Cissé condemned the late penalty decision, while thousands of Senegalese fans at the African Renaissance Monument fan zone were left heartbroken. Belgium will now face host nation USA in the next roundChina.org+2.

🏟️ Match Overview

Senegal dominated early with Ismaila Sarr's spectacular chest control and finish in the 51st minute doubling their lead after Habib Diarra's opener. Belgium struggled for 85 minutes before launching their comeback, with the match ultimately decided by a last-gasp penalty in extra time. The victory marked Belgium's progression alongside England, who also advanced after beating DR Congo. The match highlighted the psychological dynamics of high-stakes competitions, including an on-field argument that shifted momentumChina.org+2.

⚽ Key Moments

The turning point came when Romelu Lukaku scored Belgium's first in the 86th minute, followed immediately by Tielemans' equalizer two minutes later. In extra time, a VAR-reviewed foul led to Tielemans' winning penalty. Senegal nearly equalized late through Pepe Sarr's free kick, but the attempt went wide. The match featured controversy over the decisive penalty call and Senegal's goalkeeper error that proved costlySüddeutsche Zeitung+2.

🌟 Player Performances

Youri Tielemans delivered a man-of-the-match performance with two crucial goals, including the decisive penalty. Lukaku's introduction changed the game, while Ismaila Sarr's goal tied an African scoring record and showcased his potential as a center forward. Senegal's players, including Sadio Mané, were left devastated after their second consecutive knockout stage exitChina.org+2.

📊 Tournament Implications

The win keeps Belgium's title hopes alive in a tournament where England seeks their first trophy in 60 years. The match set a new standard for drama in the expanded 48-team World Cup format. Senegal's early exit despite strong performances highlights the tournament's unpredictability, sparking discussions among fans and analysts about competitive balanceTASS+2.

BelgiumSeattleSenegalRomelu LukakuYouri Tielemans