Tielemans Scores Historic Late Winner
Belgium produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the World Cup as they defeated Senegal 3-2 in Seattle.
Youri Tielemans scored the decisive goal in the 125th minute. His penalty became the latest winning goal in World Cup history.
The result sent Belgium into the last 16. They could now face the United States, who play Bosnia and Herzegovina later on Wednesday.
Senegal looked close to a historic victory. They were leading 2-0 and appeared set for their first World Cup knockout win since 2002.
However, Belgium refused to give up. Romelu Lukaku and Tielemans scored in the final five minutes of normal time to force extra time.
Tielemans then completed the comeback from the penalty spot after a VAR review.
Senegal Take Control Before Belgium Fight Back
Senegal started with energy and confidence.
Ismaila Sarr came close early when his effort hit the post. Moments later, Senegal took the lead.
Sarr’s header from Sadio Mane’s cross struck the post. Habib Diarra reacted quickly and turned the rebound into the net.
Belgium created chances but failed to score before half-time. Maxim De Cuyper tested Senegal goalkeeper Mory Diaw with a curling effort from distance.
Senegal doubled their lead six minutes after the break. Sarr controlled a long pass from Moussa Niakhate and fired a powerful finish past Thibaut Courtois.
At that stage, Belgium looked close to elimination. The match also seemed likely to mark the end of an era for several senior Belgian stars.
Lukaku Sparks Dramatic Belgian Revival
Belgium turned to Romelu Lukaku at half-time.
The striker gave his team hope in the 86th minute. He scored from a Thomas Meunier cross to make it 2-1.
Just three minutes later, Belgium were level. Leandro Trossard delivered the ball into the box. Diaw failed to deal with it, and Tielemans headed into an empty net.
Extra time brought more tension. Dodi Lukebakio hit the crossbar as Belgium searched for the winner.
The final twist came late in extra time. Tielemans went down after a challenge from Lamine Camara. Referee Said Martinez awarded a penalty after a VAR check.
Tielemans stayed calm and scored from the spot. His goal sealed a remarkable Belgian victory and ended Senegal’s World Cup dream.
Belgium now move forward with renewed belief. Senegal exit after a painful collapse in one of the tournament’s most dramatic matches.
