Senegal looked set for the World Cup last 16 after leading Belgium 2-0 with just four minutes left, thanks to goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr. But a late Romelu Lukaku strike in the 86th minute and Youri Tielemans’ 89th-minute header forced extra time, turning what had been a dominant Senegal performance into one of the tournament’s most heartbreaking collapses.
Extra-time brought even more drama and controversy. A VAR review awarded Belgium a penalty for Lamine Camara’s challenge on Tielemans, and Tielemans converted the spot-kick in the 125th minute the latest goal in World Cup history condemning Senegal to elimination. The result compounded an already painful year for Senegal, who were stripped of their Africa Cup of Nations title earlier in 2026.
Belgium’s comeback stands out as one of the greatest escapes in World Cup history. No team had earlier recovered from a two-goal deficit that late in regulation to avoid defeat; the previous comparable feats were rare and historic. Manager Rudi Garcia praised his substitutes, saying the win showed the importance of squad depth and believing until the final whistle. Belgium’s bench, including Lukaku, changed the game late on and secured a remarkable turnaround.
Key points
- Match outcome: Belgium beat Senegal after extra time; Senegal eliminated.
- Late comeback: Lukaku (86′) and Tielemans (89′) forced extra time after Senegal led 2-0.
- Historic finish: Tielemans converted a 125th-minute penalty the latest World Cup goal ever.
- Controversy: Penalty decision followed a VAR review and sparked debate.
- Context: Senegal had earlier been stripped of their AFCON title in 2026, deepening the disappointment.
