Belgium staged a remarkable comeback from two goals down to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time and secure a place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 in Seattle.
Youri Tielemans emerged as the hero, calmly converting a penalty in the 125th minute after a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review ruled that Senegal’s Lamine Camara had fouled him inside the box. The midfielder blasted his effort into the top corner to complete an incredible turnaround.
Senegal had looked firmly in control for most of the contest after Habib Diarra opened the scoring before Ismaila Sarr doubled the lead early in the second half.
The African side also struck the woodwork twice and appeared destined for victory, but Belgium mounted a dramatic late fightback.
Romelu Lukaku gave Belgium hope by pulling one back in the closing stages before Tielemans headed home the equaliser just minutes later to force the match into extra time.
Belgium’s persistence was rewarded with virtually the final kick of the game when Tielemans converted from the penalty spot to send his side into the next round.
The victory keeps Belgium’s World Cup dream alive and sets up a Round of 16 clash against the winner of the match between co-hosts the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
For Senegal, the defeat marked a heartbreaking end to their campaign after dominating large periods of the match. The Teranga Lions became the fourth African team to exit the tournament in the Round of 32 following the eliminations of South Africa, Ivory Coast and DR Congo.
