Belgium wrote one of the most stunning scripts of this 2026 World Cup. Long dominated by an attractive Senegal team, the Red Devils found the mental resources and character to snatch a spectacular 3-2 victory after extra time, sealing their qualification for the round of 16.
For more than eighty minutes, the Lions of Teranga seemed to have the match perfectly under control. Thanks to a very high-level collective performance, they took charge in the first half with an opening goal from Habib Diarra, before Ismaïla Sarr doubled the lead shortly after the restart. Defensively solid, aggressive in duels, and highly inspired in attack, the Senegalese completely thwarted an unrecognizable Belgium side that was unable to find space or establish their rhythm.
Just as elimination seemed to be drawing inexorably closer, the Belgian manager changed the face of his team with several attacking adjustments. The introduction of Romelu Lukaku completely transformed the dynamic of the match. The striker first reduced the deficit with just a few minutes remaining, immediately restoring hope to an entire nation. Carried by this momentum, the Belgians then pushed forward with incredible intensity until Youri Tielemans equalized in the dying moments of regulation time, sending the Red Devils’ supporters into raptures.
Extra time then offered a new chapter to this exceptional confrontation. Both national teams continued to trade blows, well aware that the slightest mistake could prove fatal. Despite fatigue and cramps setting in on both sides, Belgium gradually gained the upper hand thanks to their experience and better management of the match’s quieter periods.
The turning point finally came when a penalty was awarded to the Belgians. Youri Tielemans did not let the pressure get to him and converted the spot-kick with great composure, giving his team the definitive lead and sealing a comeback that will go down as one of the most spectacular of this World Cup edition.
This qualification confirms once again the character of this Belgian generation. Even when shaken, even when trailing by two goals against a particularly strong opponent, the Red Devils never stopped believing. Their ability to turn around a nearly desperate situation demonstrates a remarkable mental strength that could prove highly dangerous for their future opponents.
For Senegal, the elimination naturally leaves an immense sense of frustration. The Lions delivered one of their best performances of the tournament for most of the match, but a few minutes of lapsed concentration were enough to see a ticket to the next round—which seemed well within their grasp—slip away. Despite this immense disappointment, their run confirms once again the enormous progress of Senegalese football on the world stage.
Thanks to this spectacular success, Belgium continues its World Cup journey with renewed confidence. The Red Devils now know they possess the resources required to survive the most complicated situations—an indispensable quality when aiming for the top in a World Cup where every detail can alter a team’s destiny.
