Belgium secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Senegal in extra time to book their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinals. The match, played on July 2, 2026, saw Romelu Lukaku score the winning goal in the 117th minute, capping a thrilling encounter at the Al Bayt Stadium.
First Half: Senegal Take Early Lead
Senegal stunned Belgium early in the match, taking the lead in the 12th minute through a well-taken goal by Sadio Mané. The Senegalese forward capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot the ball past Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Belgium responded with pressure but struggled to break down Senegal's organized defense.
Belgium Equalize Before Halftime
Belgium found their equalizer in the 38th minute when Kevin De Bruyne unleashed a powerful strike from outside the box that beat Senegal's goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. The goal lifted Belgium's spirits, and they went into halftime level at 1-1.
Second Half: Senegal Regain Lead
The second half saw Senegal regain the lead in the 55th minute. A swift counter-attack ended with Ismaila Sarr finishing clinically after a pass from Nampalys Mendy. Belgium pushed forward again, and their persistence paid off in the 78th minute when a corner kick was headed home by defender Jan Vertonghen to make it 2-2.
Extra Time: Lukaku Seals the Win
With the score tied after 90 minutes, the match went into extra time. Both teams had chances, but it was Belgium who struck the decisive blow. In the 117th minute, a cross from Yannick Carrasco found Romelu Lukaku, who headed the ball into the net to give Belgium a 3-2 lead. Senegal could not find an equalizer in the remaining minutes, and Belgium held on for the win.
Key Statistics and Quotes
Belgium dominated possession with 58% and had 15 shots on goal compared to Senegal's 10. The victory marked Belgium's first World Cup quarterfinal appearance since 2018. According to Belgium coach Roberto Martinez, "It was a tough match against a very strong Senegal team. The players showed great character to come back twice and win it in extra time." Senegal coach Aliou Cissé lamented the result, saying, "We gave everything, but small details decided the match."
Impact and Looking Ahead
Belgium will now face the winner of the match between Brazil and Portugal in the quarterfinals. The win keeps Belgium's hopes of winning their first World Cup title alive. Senegal, who reached the round of 16 for the first time in 2022, will be disappointed but can take pride in their performance.
