Belgium staged one of the biggest comebacks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, recovering from two goals down to beat Senegal 3-2 after extra time and reach the Round of 16.
Senegal looked set for victory in Seattle after Habib Diarra gave them a first-half lead before Ismaïla Sarr doubled the advantage early in the second half with his fourth goal of the tournament.
Belgium sparked a dramatic comeback late in normal time. Substitute Romelu Lukaku pulled one back in the 86th minute before Youri Tielemans equalised three minutes later to force extra time.
The match appeared destined for penalties until Belgium were awarded a spot kick after a VAR review deep into stoppage time of extra time. Tielemans converted in the 125th minute to seal a 3-2 victory, scoring the latest goal in FIFA World Cup history.
Senegal had chances to put the game beyond reach, but Thibaut Courtois produced several key saves, and Senegal struck the woodwork twice without adding to their lead.
Belgium became only the second team in the last 11 FIFA World Cups to recover from a two-goal deficit and win a knockout match, matching their 3-2 comeback against Japan in the Round of 16 in 2018.
Belgium will face the United States in the Round of 16, while Senegal exit the tournament after letting a two-goal lead slip.
