World Cup last 32: Mass exit for Africa as Senegal become latest side after Belgium’s dramatic comeback win
Senegal became the fourth African team to exit the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the Round of 32 after surrendering a two-goal lead in a dramatic 3-2 extra-time defeat to Belgium.
The Teranga Lions joined South Africa, Ivory Coast and DR Congo in leaving the tournament at the first knockout stage despite appearing to be on course for a famous victory.
Belgium completed a remarkable late comeback before Youri Tielemans converted a penalty deep into extra time to send the Europeans into the last 16.
The victory sets up a meeting with either the United States or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the next round.
Senegal lose grip on commanding lead
Senegal looked in complete control for much of the contest after producing an impressive performance against Rudi Garcia’s side.
Habib Diarra opened the scoring before Ismaila Sarr doubled the advantage, putting the African side within touching distance of the last 16.
Belgium struggled to create clear opportunities and faced elimination as the match entered its closing stages.
However, the encounter shifted dramatically with only minutes remaining.
Substitute Romelu Lukaku reduced the deficit after turning home Thomas Meunier’s cross to give Belgium some hope.
Moments later, Leandro Trossard delivered another dangerous ball into the penalty area. Goalkeeper Mory Diaw failed to deal with the cross, allowing Belgium captain Tielemans to head home the equaliser and force extra time.
Tielemans seals Belgium victory
Belgium completed the turnaround in the closing moments of extra time after a lengthy VAR review.
The officials awarded a penalty after determining that Lamine Camara had fouled Tielemans inside the penalty area. The review lasted several minutes before the decision was confirmed.
Tielemans stepped forward and calmly converted the spot-kick into the top corner to complete Belgium’s comeback.
Earlier in the second half, emotions had boiled over among the Belgian players, with Tielemans and Leandro Trossard involved in a heated exchange before Romelu Lukaku intervened to calm the situation.
The defeat marked a painful end to Senegal’s encouraging campaign and reduced Africa’s representation at the tournament.