Belgium Ousts Senegal from World Cup in Dramatic Fashion

Senegal’s World Cup aspirations took a serious blow as their team faced Belgium in a tense Round-of-32 match during the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup. Senegal looked set to advance with a commanding position throughout the game.

Habib Diarra scored in the 25th minute, giving Senegal the lead, and Ismaila Sarr extended the advantage with a goal in the 51st minute. For most of the match, Senegal maintained control, keeping Belgium at bay. However, Belgium retaliated dramatically as Romelu Lukaku and Youri Tielemans each found the net in a rapid three-minute period, leveling the score and forcing extra time.

As the match neared its close, it seemed destined for penalty kicks. Then, a crucial moment shifted everything. Youri Tielemans won a penalty in the 125th minute, which led to the latest goal in men’s World Cup history. Tielemans successfully scored, securing a 3-2 victory for Belgium, according to ESPN.

Senegal’s desperate efforts to equalize were unsuccessful, resulting in a highly improbable and controversial win for Belgium. The decisive penalty came after a lengthy seven-minute VAR review, leaving Senegal’s players and supporters frustrated. This situation raised questions as similar controversies had arisen in earlier matches.

Taylor Twellman, an Apple TV MLS analyst, highlighted on social media the recurring involvement of the referee in contentious penalty decisions. Soccer journalist Steve Davis also commented on how varying foul standards in the tournament contributed to the controversy.

Senegal’s manager, Pape Thiaw, refrained from directly criticizing the officiating. Thiaw stated, “I do not want to interpret the decision. We all have different interpretations when it comes to awarding a penalty. I’d rather not comment, not interpreting the referee’s decision.” The outcome left Senegal disappointed as they exited the tournament.

Belgium will now face the winner of the match between the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina. This Round of 16 encounter is set for Monday, July 6.