Senegal's 2026 World Cup campaign came to a heartbreaking end on Wednesday in Seattle. The Lions of Teranga were defeated by Belgium 3-2 after extra time in the Round of 32, despite holding a two-goal lead until the closing minutes of normal time.
Senegal made the perfect start as Habib Diarra opened the scoring in the 24th minute, before Ismaïla Sarr doubled the advantage shortly after halftime (51st minute). At that stage, qualification appeared to be within reach for the African side.
However, the Red Devils staged a dramatic comeback late in the match. Coming off the bench, Romelu Lukaku pulled one back in the 86th minute, before Youri Tielemans equalized three minutes later (89th minute) to force extra time.
As the match seemed destined for a penalty shootout, Belgium was awarded a penalty in the final moments of extra time. Youri Tielemans calmly converted the spot kick in the 120th 5 minute, sealing a dramatic victory for the Red Devils and bringing the Lions of Teranga's World Cup journey to an end.
With this remarkable comeback, Belgium secured its place in the Round of 16, where it will face the United States.
