SEATTLE, United States – Web Desk: In a dramatic FIFA World Cup pre-quarterfinal clash, Belgium mounted a sensational late comeback to defeat Senegal 3-2 and secure their place in the Round of 16.
The match, held in Seattle, witnessed Senegal dominating the majority of the game, building a strong 2-0 lead with goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaïla Sarr, leaving Belgium on the brink of elimination.
However, the Red Devils staged a remarkable turnaround in the dying moments of regulation time. Romelu Lukaku, who had been introduced at halftime, ignited Belgian hopes in the 86th minute with a clinical finish from Thomas Meunier’s cross. Just minutes later, Youri Tielemans rose to meet Leandro Trossard’s dangerous delivery, heading home to level the score at 2-2 and force the match into extra time.
Both sides pushed desperately for a winner during the additional period, creating several near-misses. But the decisive moment arrived in the 125th minute when the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) awarded Belgium a penalty following Lamine Camara’s challenge, a decision that sparked heated protests from the Senegalese players. With nerves of steel, Youri Tielemans stepped up for his second goal of the match, coolly converting the spot-kick to complete a historic 3-2 victory. The win sends Belgium through to the pre-quarterfinals, where they will now face the United States in a highly anticipated showdown.
