Belgium Stage Stunning Comeback to Sink Senegal in 125th-Minute

• Belgium staged one of the greatest comebacks in World Cup history, scoring three late goals—including a controversial 125th-minute VAR penalty—to beat Senegal 3-2 after trailing 2-0 and book their place in the Round of 16.

Belgium produced one of the greatest comebacks in FIFA World Cup history, overturning a two-goal deficit to defeat Senegal 3-2 after extra time and book their place in the Round of 16.

Senegal looked destined for victory after first-half goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr handed the African side a commanding 2-0 lead with just minutes remaining in normal time.

However, Romelu Lukaku sparked an incredible comeback in the 86th minute before captain Youri Tielemans headed home a dramatic equaliser three minutes later to force extra time.

The decisive moment came in the 125th minute when Belgium were awarded a controversial penalty following a lengthy VAR review after Lamine Camara was adjudged to have fouled Tielemans inside the box. Tielemans calmly converted from the spot, scoring the latest goal in FIFA World Cup history to send Belgium through and leave Senegal heartbroken.

The dramatic victory also made Belgium the first team in World Cup history to recover from a two-goal deficit so late in normal time and still win the match. It also echoed their famous 3-2 comeback victory over Japan at the 2018 World Cup.

Despite dominating for much of the contest, Senegal were left devastated after another painful exit, just months after losing their Africa Cup of Nations title under controversial circumstances.

Belgium will now advance to the Round of 16, while Senegal’s World Cup journey comes to a heartbreaking end.