Belgium’s last-gasp penalty stuns Senegal in world cup thriller

In a breathtaking finale, Belgium snatched a dramatic victory over Senegal in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on July 1, advancing to the next stage by the narrowest of margins. The match, decided in the dying seconds of extra time, ended 3-2 in favor of the Red Devils after a penalty was awarded following a VAR review.

Senegal had led comfortably for most of the game, opening the scoring through Habib Diarra (24′) and doubling their advantage with a strike from Ismaïla Sarr (51′). The West African side controlled play effectively, testing Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois repeatedly. A powerful header from Sarr struck the post (13′), while Diarra capitalized on a rebound to make it 2-0.

From despair to glory: Belgium’s stunning late turnaround

The first half saw dramatic tactical shifts as Belgian manager Rudi Garcia made bold substitutions, bringing on Romelu Lukaku and removing key midfielders. Despite the changes, Senegal added a third goal just before halftime, with Sarr finding the net again. The second period began with tension simmering on the pitch, culminating in a heated exchange between Youri Tielemans and Leandro Trossard.

But as the clock ticked down, Belgium found their rhythm. Lukaku, Belgium’s all-time World Cup top scorer with six goals, finally broke through in the 86th minute with a clinical finish. Tielemans followed suit three minutes later, heading home to level the score at 3-3 and force extra time.

Extra time began slowly, but the tension exploded in the final minutes. Dodi Lukébakio’s fierce effort rattled the crossbar (117′), before a controversial VAR decision awarded Belgium a penalty. Tielemans stepped up with ice in his veins to convert, sending the Belgian faithful into raptures and sealing an unforgettable comeback.

Belgium, semifinalists in 2018 but shockingly eliminated in the group stage four years prior, will face either the United States or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Round of 16 on July 7. Their opponents in this knockout clash will be determined by the result of another thrilling match.

For Senegal, who were competing in their fourth World Cup, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow. Coach Pape Thiaw admitted the team had given their all but couldn’t maintain their lead. He reflected on a campaign that ended in disappointment, echoing the heartbreak of their recent Africa Cup of Nations loss to Morocco.

“In football, anything is possible as long as you believe. This team’s strength lies in those who come off the bench—you can’t win with just eleven players,” Garcia reflected after the match, praising the depth and resilience of his squad.