Youri Tielemans converted a controversial stoppage-time penalty in the 122nd minute to cap a stunning Belgium comeback, as Rudi Garcia's side defeated Senegal 3-2 after extra time to book their place in the World Cup last 16. Trailing 2-0 with just five minutes of regular time remaining, Belgium rallied with two quick goals to force extra time, before Tielemans' late spot-kick sealed the victory.
Senegal Dominates Early, Takes Two-Goal Lead
Senegal controlled much of the match, taking the lead midway through the first half when Habib Diarra tapped in after Sadio Mané's cross hit the post. Ismaïla Sarr doubled the lead in the 70th minute with a stunning solo effort, chesting down a diagonal ball from Moussa Niakhaté before smashing past Thibaut Courtois. Belgium looked destined for an early exit, joining Germany and the Netherlands in the World Cup departures lounge.
Lukaku and Tielemans Spark Comeback
Garcia's half-time substitution, Romelu Lukaku, proved pivotal. He scored in the 85th minute, converting a cross from fellow substitute Thomas Meunier at the front post. Just three minutes later, Tielemans equalized with a brave header from Leandro Trossard's cross, directing the ball past Senegal goalkeeper Mory Diaw. Tielemans had instructed Trossard exactly where to deliver the ball, pointing to the space behind Niakhaté.
"I told him to put it there, and he did perfectly," Tielemans said after the match. "We never gave up, and that belief carried us through."
Extra Time Drama and Controversial Penalty
The match appeared destined for penalties when, in the 122nd minute, VAR intervened. Referee Saíd Martínez was called to the monitor after Lamine Kamara was adjudged to have swiped Tielemans' left ankle in the buildup to Dodi Lukébakio's shot that skimmed the crossbar. Tielemans stepped up and calmly slotted the spot-kick past Diaw, sparking wild celebrations among the Belgian players and staff.
Senegal had chances to seal the win earlier. Sarr hit the post in the 12th minute, and Courtois denied Mané with a fine save in the 84th minute. Mané was influential throughout, setting up Diarra's opener, but could not find the net himself.
Garcia's Substitutions Prove Decisive
Belgium's comeback was fueled by Garcia's tactical changes. Lukaku replaced the ineffective Charles De Ketelaere, while Lukébakio came on for Jérémy Doku. Nico Raskin also played a key role, replacing Kevin De Bruyne and acting as a mediator when Trossard and Tielemans clashed during a second-half drinks break. Garcia himself was booked amid the celebrations.
"The substitutes made the difference," Garcia said. "They brought energy and belief when we needed it most."
