2026 World Cup: Belgium’s Crazy Comeback from 0-2 to 3-2; Senegal Eliminated in the 125th Minute
Belgium’s miraculous qualification. Just when all seemed lost, the Red Devils found the strength to climb out of the abyss and secure a sensational spot in the World Cup round of 16. Facing a Senegal side that dominated for over 100 minutes, Rudi Garcia’s team turned a desperate situation around, coming back from a 0-2 deficit to win 3-2 thanks to a penalty kick converted by Tielemans in the 125th minute of extra time. A comeback destined to go down in the tournament’s history.
For long stretches of the match, Senegal put on a show. Goals by Diarra and Ismaïla Sarr rewarded an authoritative performance, further highlighted by two shots off the woodwork and nearly total control of the game. The Senegalese seemed to have a spot in the next round in the bag, but in the closing minutes, the fragility that had already surfaced in their previous matches against France and Norway resurfaced.
Belgium, which had looked lackluster and uninspired for much of the match, regained its energy thanks to the entry of Romelu Lukaku. Garcia’s move shifted the momentum of the match: in the 86th minute, the striker pulled one back, then Tielemans tied the score at 2-2 in the 89th minute, capitalizing on a mistake by goalkeeper Diaw. Just when a penalty shootout seemed inevitable, the same midfielder earned and converted the decisive penalty, securing an unexpected qualification for his team.
The victory, however, does not erase the problems that have emerged throughout Belgium’s campaign. The team once again displayed obvious limitations in terms of play, character, and cohesion. The spat between Trossard and Tielemans at 0-2—quelled by Lukaku—was emblematic, while on the bench, Garcia sought solutions for a lineup that continues to seem in search of a true identity.
On the other side, there remains bitterness for a Senegal team that had played the match almost perfectly. The lead came in the 25th minute from Diarra, who was quick to tap in after a header by Ismaïla Sarr hit the post. Early in the second half, Sarr himself scored the second goal with a splendid volley off a pass from Niakhaté, confirming his team’s physical, technical, and tactical superiority.
