Belgium defeated Senegal 3-2 after extra time in a thrilling 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 encounter.
The result saw Belgium overturn a two-goal deficit to secure a dramatic place in the Round of 16.
Senegal started strongly and took control after Habib Diarra opened scoring in the 25th minute.
The Teranga Lions displayed energy and discipline, keeping Belgium under pressure throughout the opening exchanges.
Senegal doubled their advantage in the 51st minute through Ismaïla Sarr’s close-range finish.
Moussa Niakhaté provided the assist as Senegal moved 2-0 ahead and appeared set for victory.
Belgium struggled to match Senegal’s intensity, forcing coach Rudi Garcia into tactical adjustments.
Romelu Lukaku replaced Charles De Ketelaere, while Nicolas Raskin came on for Kevin De Bruyne.
Dodi Lukebakio also entered the game, replacing Jérémy Doku in Belgium’s search for a comeback.
Diego Moreira was later introduced for Hans Vanaken as Belgium continued pushing forward.
The match became increasingly physical, with both teams fighting fiercely for midfield control.
Brandon Mechele received a yellow card for Belgium, while Lamine Camara was booked for Senegal.
Senegal coach made further changes, introducing Ibrahima Mbaye and replacing goalscorer Habib Diarra.
Belgium’s pressure eventually produced a breakthrough late in the second half. Lukaku reduced the deficit in the 86th minute, giving Belgium renewed belief.
“Romelu’s goal changed the momentum and gave us the confidence to keep fighting,” the Belgian coach said.
Just three minutes later, Youri Tielemans completed the comeback with a composed finish.
Leandro Trossard supplied the assist as Belgium forced the contest into extra time.
Belgium looked more composed during the additional period in spite of both teams showing fatigue.
Their persistence was rewarded when Tielemans converted a penalty in the 120+5th minute.
The dramatic winner completed Belgium’s remarkable turnaround and secured their Round of 16 place.
Belgium’s squad depth and experience proved crucial after their difficult start to the match.
Senegal were left disappointed after losing a two-goal advantage in the closing stages.
The match reflected knockout football’s unpredictability.
Senegal exited the tournament after an impressive performance against one of Europe’s football giants.
The African side departed with pride in spite of suffering a painful late defeat.
2026 World Cup: Kane’s late brace fires England into last round of 16
Meanwhile, England earlier had defeated DR Congo 2–1 in an entertaining Round of 32 clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as captain Harry Kane struck twice late on to complete a dramatic comeback and send the Three Lions into the Round of 16.
DR Congo made a dream start to the contest, stunning England with an early breakthrough in the seventh minute.
Brian Cipenga found the back of the net after being set up by Chancel Mbemba, giving the African side an unexpected lead and putting immediate pressure on the Three Lions.
England struggled to respond for much of the match as DR Congo defended with determination and discipline, frustrating their opponents with organised defending and quick counter-attacks.
In spite of enjoying more possession and creating several opportunities, England found it difficult to break down the resilient Congolese defence.
The turning point came in the 75th minute when Anthony Gordon delivered a precise pass to Harry Kane, who calmly finished to restore parity for England.
The equaliser lifted the European side, who increased the intensity of their attacks in search of a winner.
England eventually completed the comeback in the 86th minute, with Gordon once again providing the assist for Kane.
The striker showed his experience and composure by converting the chance to score his second goal of the match and give England a crucial lead.
DR Congo attempted to push forward in the closing minutes in search of another equaliser, but England remained composed defensively to protect their advantage until the final whistle.
The encounter also produced a few disciplinary moments, with Jude Bellingham receiving a yellow card for England, while Noah Sadiki was cautioned for DR Congo.
The victory sends England into the Round of 16, while DR Congo bow out of the tournament after a spirited display that tested one of the competition’s favourites for long periods.