Belgium 3-2 Senegal LIVE Score, FIFA World Cup 2026: Youri Tielemans Converts Penalty To Complete Red Devils Comeback

BELGIUM HAVE WON IT AT THE DEATH! In a heart-stopping finale, Youri Tielemans has completed a legendary comeback to seal a 3-2 victory for Belgium. After a grueling wait during the VAR review and subsequent protests, the Aston Villa midfielder remained ice-cold under immense pressure. He stepped up to the spot and masterfully sent goalkeeper Pape Diaw the wrong way, coolly tucking his penalty into the top-right corner. Having already sparked the late revival with his equalizer in regulation, Tielemans has now etched his name into history with a 125th-minute winner. It is a stunning, unthinkable reversal for Rudi Garcia’s side, who have miraculously overturned a two-goal deficit to break Senegalese hearts in Seattle.

THE DRAMA IS ABSOLUTE! After an intense period of chaos, referee Martinez has pointed to the spot, awarding Belgium a penalty with virtually the final kick of the match! The tension was palpable as Martinez was summoned to the pitchside monitor to review Lamine Camara’s desperate lunge on Youri Tielemans. Replays confirmed that Tielemans had indeed arrived first to Diego Moreira’s low cross, only to have his standing foot swept away by a reckless challenge from behind.

As the stadium in Seattle erupts into a cacophony of jeers—led by a frustrated contingent of Senegal supporters—the gravity of the moment is clear. Belgium has been handed a golden opportunity to snatch a dramatic victory right at the death. The responsibility now rests on the penalty taker to convert this high-stakes chance and complete one of the most remarkable turnarounds in recent tournament history.

BELGIUM HAVE COME WITHIN INCHES OF A DRAMATIC WINNER! In a chaotic final scramble, a delivery from the left by Diego Moreira took a deflection that fell perfectly for Dodi Lukebakio. He took a brief moment to set himself before firing a right-footed effort that clipped the top of the crossbar and drifted over.

Amidst the tension, Belgian players immediately swarmed referee Martinez, vehemently claiming a penalty for a challenge on Youri Tielemans at the near post, specifically alleging a foul by Lamine Camara. The official waved the protests away, but the match has been brought to a temporary halt as VAR reviews the incident. With the game teetering on a knife-edge, this decision could be the difference between moving on to the next round or the heartbreak of a penalty shootout.

Senegal almost unlocked the game through the youthful energy of their substitutes. The teenage duo combined beautifully as Bara Ndiaye marauded down the right flank before cutting the ball back perfectly into the path of fellow teenager Mbaye. Mbaye went for the first-time finish, but he couldn't quite connect cleanly, dragging his effort agonisingly wide of the top-left corner. It was a heart-stopping moment for the Belgian defense and a stark reminder that even with Senegal playing more conservatively, their young attackers remain a constant threat on the counter-attack as the pressure intensifies.

The deadlock remains firmly intact as we reach the midway point of extra time, with Belgium and Senegal still level at 2-2. It was a stagnant and disjointed opening 15-minute period in Seattle, characterized more by caution and fatigue than attacking ambition. Senegal has retreated into a defensive shell, showing almost no interest in venturing forward, while Rudi Garcia’s Belgium has struggled to generate any genuine rhythm, failing to force Pape Diaw into meaningful action. Both sides appear increasingly wary of committing a fatal error, and with neither team willing to take the necessary risks to break the stalemate, the specter of a penalty shootout is beginning to loom large over this encounter.

Belgium continues to push for a decisive blow as the intensity of extra time mounts. Leandro Trossard attempted to catch the defense off guard with a clever flick intended for Romelu Lukaku, but the pass lacked the necessary weight, allowing Pathé Ciss to read the play and intercept. Shortly after, Youri Tielemans looked to bypass the Senegalese backline with a delicate lofted ball over the top, searching for Lukaku’s run. However, the striker couldn't quite connect with the delivery, and Pape Diaw was alert to the danger, safely stepping off his line to collect the ball. Both sides are showing signs of fatigue, but the Red Devils are clearly determined to capitalize on their late-match momentum.

Pape Thiaw has signaled his tactical intentions for the start of extra time, making a triple substitution to refresh his side after their late-game collapse. The experienced Sadio Mané is replaced by Nicolas Jackson, a move that pushes Ismaïla Sarr into a wider attacking role. Defensively, El Hadji Diouf enters the fray at left-back, taking over for Ismaïla Jakobs. Finally, in a bold move for the extra period, Pape Gueye is withdrawn for Bara Ndiaye, the one-cap youngster, as Senegal looks to regain the energy and discipline they lost in the final minutes of regulation. With all six substitutions now utilized, Thiaw is banking on this fresh influx of legs to restore order against a resurgent Belgium.

We are heading to extra time in Seattle after a truly breathtaking turnaround! What appeared to be a straightforward victory for Senegal—fueled by Habib Diarra’s first-half strike and a brilliant individual effort from Ismaïla Sarr—has dissolved into absolute chaos. Pape Thiaw’s side looked to be cruising toward the next round, but the complexion of the match shifted dramatically in the dying minutes. Romelu Lukaku provided the initial spark, converting a Thomas Meunier delivery in the 86th minute, before Youri Tielemans capitalized on a catastrophic misjudgment from goalkeeper Pape Diaw to head home the equalizer just three minutes later. Senegal will be left to rue their missed chances and that late defensive lapse, while Belgium heads into the additional period with all the momentum after a desperate, late-game surge.

UNBELIEVABLE SCENES IN SEATTLE! Belgium have completed a stunning turnaround to level the scores at 2-2! Rudi Garcia’s side, who had been on the ropes for the majority of the match, have struck twice in rapid succession to completely shift the momentum. Leandro Trossard delivered a perfectly weighted, looping cross toward the far post, where Youri Tielemans soared above a hesitant Pape Diaw to nod the ball into an unguarded net. It was a disastrous error in judgment from the Senegalese goalkeeper, who left his line only to be caught in no-man's-land. While the Lions of Teranga are incensed and surrounding referee Martinez to demand a free-kick for a perceived foul, the official has remained unmoved. The goal stands, and what was a seemingly comfortable lead for Senegal has vanished in the blink of an eye!

BELGIUM HAVE A LIFELINE! In a dramatic turn of events, the Red Devils have clawed their way back to 2-1, breathing new life into what could be their final stand in this tournament. The play looked to be breaking down when Romelu Lukaku’s initial flick was intercepted, but a fortunate deflection kept the momentum alive. Thomas Meunier reacted instantly, hooking the loose ball toward the near post, where Lukaku showed his class with a clinical finish, expertly caressing the ball past Pape Diaw to find the back of the net. The momentum has shifted in an instant, and with the deficit halved, Belgium now has the spark they desperately needed to mount a furious final assault in these closing moments.

Belgium nearly clawed their way back into the contest through a moment of individual brilliance from Dodi Lukebakio. The substitute cut inside sharply from the right flank, unleashing a beautiful, curling left-footed strike that appeared destined for the top-left corner. Pape Diaw scrambled frantically across his goal line, and while he was effectively beaten by the trajectory of the shot, the ball whistled narrowly wide of the frame. It was a massive let-off for the Lions of Teranga, serving as a stark reminder to Senegal that as long as they hold only a two-goal lead, this match remains far from settled.

Barely moments after entering the fray, Lamine Camara has found himself in the referee's book. The Senegalese substitute displayed a complete lack of composure, lunging into a reckless challenge from behind on Leandro Trossard. The tackle, triggered by Trossard’s loose touch near the halfway line, was both poorly timed and dangerous, catching the Arsenal forward square on the ankle. It is a moment of pure indiscipline from the substitute, but one that underscores the intense, high-stakes nature of this encounter as frustrations begin to boil over on both sides.

Youri Tielemans attempted to spark a response with a corner from the right, but his delivery lacked the necessary height and precision, failing to clear the first defender. It is becoming a familiar theme for Belgium, who have lacked the clinical edge required to dismantle this disciplined Senegalese backline. While the clock is still ticking and there remains a glimmer of hope for a late resurgence, the Red Devils are running out of time and ideas. Their inability to create high-quality chances has left them chasing shadows, and unless they find a sudden burst of attacking inspiration, their grip on this match—and their place in the tournament—is rapidly slipping away.

SENEGAL HAVE DOUBLED THEIR LEAD! The Lions of Teranga have sent shockwaves through Seattle, extending their advantage to 2-0 and leaving Belgium’s defense in total disarray. A straightforward long pass from Moussa Niakhaté caught Brandon Mechele positioned far too deep, allowing Ismaïla Sarr to sprint clean through into the heart of the defense. Sarr showed impeccable composure, cushioning the ball with a brilliant chest touch before unleashing a powerful, off-balance half-volley that screamed past a helpless Thibaut Courtois. It is a stunning display of individual brilliance from the Crystal Palace star, and Belgium now faces a monumental task to rescue their World Cup campaign from the edge of elimination.

Belgium heads into the interval trailing a dominant Senegal side 1-0, a result that puts the Red Devils on the brink of a shocking Round of 32 exit. Rudi Garcia’s squad looked uninspired and lacked urgency throughout the opening period, struggling to find any sustained attacking rhythm against a fierce and organized Senegalese press. Pape Thiaw’s men have been the superior side from the outset; after Ismaïla Sarr missed an early sitter and later struck the post with a header, Habib Diarra was perfectly positioned to pounce on the rebound and break the deadlock in the 25th minute. With their tournament hopes hanging by a thread, Belgium must produce a complete tactical and psychological turnaround in the second half. If they continue to play with such a lack of intensity, their World Cup journey will come to a premature end in Seattle.

Belgium finally forced a moment of genuine quality, with Charles De Ketelaere showing great tenacity to win the side's first corner of the match after a block from Pathe Ciss. Kevin De Bruyne opted for a quick restart, working the ball to Maxim De Cuyper, who whipped a dangerous, curling delivery toward the top-right corner. Senegal’s goalkeeper, Pape Diaw, was equal to the challenge, stretching at full extension to palm the ball behind for another set-piece. This sustained period of pressure is exactly what the Red Devils need, as they finally begin to test the resolve of the Senegalese defense.

Belgium almost found their breakthrough through a moment of individual brilliance from Kevin De Bruyne, who carved out space to release Jérémy Doku down the flank. Doku tormented the defense with his signature footwork, weaving inside and out before firing a menacing cross-shot that took a dangerous deflection off Ismaïla Jakobs. The ball seemed destined to catch Senegalese goalkeeper Pape Diaw off guard, but he showcased excellent reflexes to recover his positioning just in time, safely clutching the ball at his near post. It was a heart-in-mouth moment for Senegal, signaling that the Red Devils are finally beginning to find their attacking rhythm.

Senegal continues to slice through the Belgian defense with clinical precision, moving the ball across the pitch with effortless confidence. Sadio Mané found himself at the heart of the action once again, executing a sharp one-two combination that opened up the Belgian backline. However, just as the forward prepared to curl a precise finish past Thibaut Courtois, he lost his footing, resulting in a tame effort that the Belgian goalkeeper gathered with ease. It was a reprieve for the Red Devils, who remain lucky to be trailing by only a single goal after another lapse in defensive concentration allowed the Lions of Teranga to create such a dangerous opening.

Belgium has struggled to find their rhythm, as the Red Devils have been stifled by Senegal’s intense physical approach and organized press. The Lions of Teranga have completely dictated the tempo, leaving the Belgian stars frustrated and disconnected in the final third. This mandatory hydration break has arrived at the perfect moment for Rudi Garcia’s side; it provides a vital tactical window to regroup, adjust their formation, and find a solution to the relentless pressure they are facing. If Belgium intends to mount a comeback and reclaim control of this Round of 32 clash, they must use these few minutes to mentally reset and formulate a plan to disrupt Senegal's momentum.

SENEGAL HAVE BROKEN THE DEADLOCK! In a stunning turn of events just before the hydration break, the Lions of Teranga have snatched a deserved 1-0 lead. Sadio Mané provided the spark, isolating his marker on the flank before curling a dangerous delivery toward the penalty spot. Ismaïla Sarr met the cross with a precise first-time header that rattled the right-hand post, leaving Thibaut Courtois stranded and helpless on the turf. Habib Diarra showed incredible predatory instinct to react faster than the scrambling Belgian defense, pouncing on the rebound to tap the ball into the empty net. It is a massive statement of intent from Pape Thiaw’s side, who have now put Belgium under immense pressure in this knockout showdown.

Senegal has just squandered an absolute golden opportunity to snatch the lead in this Round of 32 clash! Ismaïla Jakobs dismantled the Belgian left flank with blistering pace, delivering a dangerous cross that forced Thibaut Courtois into a nervy, uncharacteristic save, palming the ball directly into a chaotic six-yard area. Ismaïla Sarr was the first to react, pouncing on the loose ball to strike the post with a desperate poke. In a moment of pure disbelief, the rebound fell perfectly for him, yet he somehow contrived to squirm the follow-up wide from point-blank range. It is a massive let-off for the Red Devils, and Senegal will surely be haunted by such a glaring missed opportunity in a game where chances are at a premium.

Leandro Trossard continues to be the primary spark in the Belgian attack, finding himself in dangerous positions time and again. His latest attempt—a sharp, driven ball into a congested penalty area—was met with frantic defensive intervention from the Senegalese backline. Having netted a clinical brace in the group-stage finale, Trossard clearly carries the confidence of a player currently in peak form. Manager Rudi Garcia is undoubtedly hoping that this early aggression is a sign of things to come, as a second consecutive multi-goal masterclass from the Arsenal forward would go a long way in breaking the deadlock and propelling the Red Devils toward a spot in the quarter-finals.

The action is underway at Seattle Stadium as Belgium and Senegal kick off their highly anticipated Round of 32 clash. With referee Said Martinez signaling the start, both sides are eager to carry their group-stage momentum into this knockout tie. Belgium, having topped Group G with a convincing 5-1 win over New Zealand, maintain an unchanged starting XI, trusting the creative synergy between Kevin De Bruyne, Jérémy Doku, and Leandro Trossard. Senegal, looking to build on their own dominant 5-0 victory against Iraq, have opted for three tactical adjustments, bringing in Pathe Ciss, Iliman Ndiaye, and Pape Gueye as they look to challenge the Belgian defense. The winner of this encounter is set to advance to the Round of 16 to face either the USA or Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Mory Diaw; Krepin Diatta, Moussa Niakhate, Pathe Ciss, Ismail Jakobs; Pape Gueye, Idrissa Gueye, Habib Diarra; Sadio Mane, Ismaila Sarr, Iliman Ndiaye

SUBSTITUTES: Yehvann Diouf, Mamadou Sarr, Kalidou Koulibaly, Abdoulaye Seck, Assane Diao, Lamine Camara, Bamba Dieng, Nicolas Jackson, Cherif Ndiaye, Pape Matar Sarr, Ibrahim Mbaye, Bara Sapoko Ndiaye, Antoine Mendy, El Hadji Malick Diouf

Thibaut Courtois; Timothy Castagne, Arthur Theate, Brandon Mechele, Maxim De Cuyper; Hans Vanaken, Youri Tielemans; Leandro Trossard, Kevin De Bruyne, Jeremy Doku; Charles De Ketelaere

SUBSTITUTES: Axel Witsel, Romelu Lukaku, Senne Lammens, Mike Penders, Dodi Lukebakio, Thomas Meunier, Koni De Winter, Joaquin Seys, Diego Moreira, Alexis Saelemaekers, Nicolas Raskin, Amadou Onana, Nathan Ngoy, Matias Fernandez-Pardo

Senegal’s group stage campaign in the 2026 FIFA World Cup was a story of resilience and late-tournament momentum. Placed in a challenging Group I alongside France and Norway, the "Lions of Teranga" initially struggled, suffering back-to-back defeats against both sides. Faced with the threat of an early exit, they produced their most complete performance of the tournament in their final match against Iraq. Knowing only a substantial victory could keep their knockout dreams alive, Pape Thiaw’s side delivered an emphatic 5-0 win. The dominant display—featuring a brace from substitute Pape Gueye and goals from Habib Diarra, Ismaila Sarr, and Iliman Ndiaye—was historic, marking the first time an African nation had scored five goals in a men's World Cup match and ultimately securing their progression to the Round of 32 as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams.

Belgium had a steady, albeit cautious, start to their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign in Group G, opening with consecutive draws against Egypt (1-1) and Iran (0-0). Despite these early struggles in breaking down organized defenses, they found their rhythm in their final group match, producing a dominant 5-1 thrashing of New Zealand. This emphatic performance, highlighted by a brace from Leandro Trossard and goals from Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Alexis Saelemaekers, ensured Belgium finished at the top of Group G with five points. The result not only secured their place in the knockout stage but also provided the team with a significant boost in confidence as they advanced to face Senegal in the Round of 32.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be telecast live on Unite8 Sports network on television. For live streaming, one can catch the action on the Zee5 app and website.

Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026

Stage: Round of 32

Kickoff Time: 4:00 PM EDT (1:30 AM IST on July 2)

Venue: Seattle Stadium, Seattle, Washington, USA

Referee: Saíd Martínez

Greetings, we are back with our FIFA World Cup 2026 live blog as Belgium and Senegal face-off in the Round of 32 match. The action is about to begin, so stay tuned for all the live updates from Seattle Stadium.