- Belgium came from 2–0 down to beat Senegal 3–2
- Lukaku and Tielemans scored late to force extra time
- Tielemans sealed the win with a 125th-minute penalty
Belgium produced a dramatic late turnaround on Wednesday, coming from two goals down to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time in the most thrilling comeback of the 2026 World Cup so far.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that Senegal looked set for a famous victory after taking a 2-0 lead with just minutes remaining in regulation. However, Belgium fought back through late strikes from Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans to force extra time in the round of 32 clash.
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Tielemans then sealed the win historically, converting a stoppage-time penalty in the 125th minute — the latest goal ever recorded at a World Cup finals. The spot kick was awarded after a VAR review confirmed a foul in the box, despite strong Senegalese protests.
After the match, Tielemans said he was proud to play a decisive role in the comeback, while Senegal coach Pape Thiaw declined to heavily criticise the referee’s decision, saying interpretations of penalties often differ.
Senegal had earlier been in control, with goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaïla Sarr putting them in command, while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made key saves to keep Belgium in the game.
Belgium coach Rudi Garcia admitted Senegal had been the better side for long stretches but praised his team’s fighting spirit, as the Red Devils advanced to face the United States in the round of 16 in Seattle.
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