What's happened
Belgium has overturned a 2-0 deficit against Senegal to win 3-2 after extra time, with Lukaku and Tielemans scoring late goals following a VAR-awarded penalty for a spot kick conceded by Lamine Camara. The comeback spans a dramatic finish to the group-stage clash, sending Belgium into the last 16.
What's behind the headline?
Analysis
- Belgium’s substitutions at halftime reshaped the match, with Lukaku’s late impact proving decisive.
- VAR decisions shaped the verdict, giving Belgium a lifeline that sparked belief among players and fans.
- The result compounds Senegal’s heartbreak, reflecting the fine margins in knockout football and highlighting the fragility of a two-goal lead.
- The win potentially alters the momentum for the next round, with Belgium profiting from fresh legs and late-game resilience.
What this shows for readers is how quickly a knockout game can flip, and why squad depth matters in tournament football.
How we got here
Senegal led 2-0 through Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr before Belgium hit back in the final minutes of normal time with Lukaku and Tielemans converting chances after substitutions; VAR awarded the decisive penalty in stoppage time.
Our analysis
Independent and Guardian reports both recount the late turnaround and VAR decision; Al Jazeera provides match details and quotes from players; Reuters coverage corroborates Lukaku and Tielemans as match-winners.
Go deeper
- What did Belgium change at halftime to flip the game?
- Will Belgium’s late comeback influence their confidence going into the last 16?
- How does this affect Senegal's campaign and their prospects in future tournaments?
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