Belgium kept their World Cup hopes alive in extraordinary fashion, coming from two goals behind to beat Senegal in a thrilling last 32 contest that will be remembered for late drama, VAR controversy and Youri Tielemans’ decisive composure.
For most of the match, Belgium looked set for a painful exit. Senegal were sharper, more aggressive and more dangerous in attack, taking control through goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr. Diarra opened the scoring after reacting quickest to Sarr’s header off the post, before Sarr doubled the lead early in the second half with a superb finish past Thibaut Courtois after controlling a long pass from Moussa Niakhate.
With only four minutes of normal time remaining, Belgium appeared beaten. But Romelu Lukaku, introduced at half time, gave Rudi Garcia’s side a way back. The experienced striker showed his finishing instinct by turning in Thomas Meunier’s delivery in the 86th minute, giving Belgium sudden belief.
That belief quickly turned into chaos for Senegal. In the 89th minute, Leandro Trossard sent a dangerous ball into the area, goalkeeper Mory Diaw failed to deal with it, and Tielemans arrived to head Belgium level at 2 2. It was a stunning turnaround, especially after Tielemans and Lukaku had earlier been involved in a heated exchange before the second half hydration break.
Extra time brought even more tension. Senegal tried to recover from the shock, but Belgium carried the stronger momentum. Then, deep into stoppage time, came the moment that decided the tie. After a lengthy seven minute VAR check, Belgium were awarded a penalty for Lamine Camara’s challenge on Tielemans moments before Dodi Lukebakio’s effort struck the crossbar.
Tielemans stepped up in the 125th minute and delivered under huge pressure, sending his penalty into the top corner to complete Belgium’s incredible rescue act.
The result sends Belgium into the last 16, where they will face either the United States or Bosnia and Herzegovina. For Senegal, it was another cruel chapter after their recent Africa Cup of Nations heartbreak, while Belgium’s dream remains alive.
