Late penalty seals stunning Belgian comeback victory against Senegal
Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans converted a dramatic 125th-minute penalty to secure an incredible 3-2 extra-time victory over Senegal in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32. This intense knockout match in Seattle saw the Red Devils fight back from two goals down to claim their place in the final 16. The victory extended their impressive unbeaten streak to 17 matches.
Senegal controlled the early tempo during this historic first football meeting between the two nations. Striker Ismaila Sarr created constant trouble for the European side, hitting the post before Habib Diarra scored the opening goal from a quick rebound. Early in the second half, Sarr doubled the advantage by racing past defenders to slot the ball home. This goal placed Sarr alongside legendary Cameroonian forward Roger Milla for the most goals scored by an African player in a single tournament edition. Football fans in regions like Odisha, where global tournament viewership has grown rapidly, witnessed a masterclass in direct attacking play.
Tactical Substitutions Pay Off
Faced with elimination, Belgium relied on experienced players from the bench to turn the tide. Veteran striker Romelu Lukaku initiated the fightback by converting a precise pass from Thomas Meunier. Minutes later, Tielemans scored the equalizer with a powerful strike, forcing the match into a tense extra-time period.
Both squads came close to scoring during extra time, with Belgium hitting the crossbar and Senegal missing a clear opportunity. Just as a penalty shootout seemed certain, a video assistant referee review confirmed a foul on Tielemans inside the box. The midfielder held his nerve to score from the penalty spot.
Image Courtesy: ANI
