Belgium staged a dramatic late comeback to defeat Senegal 3-2 in their World Cup round of 32 match on Wednesday in Seattle. After falling behind 2-0 at halftime, the Belgian side scored twice in the final minutes of regulation time and secured the victory with a stoppage-time penalty in extra time.

Senegal appeared to be in control for much of the match, taking the lead through Habib Diarra in the 24th minute and extending it shortly after halftime with a goal from Ismaila Sarr. The Senegal forward, playing for Crystal Palace, scored his fourth World Cup goal in the 51st minute, putting the West African team seemingly on course for victory.

Belgium’s response came late in the game after coach Rudi Garcia introduced striker Romelu Lukaku at halftime. Lukaku’s finish near the post in the 86th minute sparked renewed hope, followed by a headed equalizer from captain Youri Tielemans in the 89th minute, capitalizing on a poorly executed punch from Senegal’s goalkeeper Mory Diaw.

The match proceeded to extra time, where both sides continued to create chances. Deep into stoppage time at the end of extra time, Senegal’s Lamine Camara committed a foul on Tielemans inside the penalty area. After a lengthy video review by referee Said Martinez, a penalty was awarded to Belgium. Tielemans confidently converted the spot-kick, sealing Belgium’s comeback victory.

Belgium, featuring members of their renowned “golden generation” from the 2018 tournament, will advance to face the winner of the round of 32 match between co-hosts the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina later this week.

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw expressed the disappointment of losing from what had seemed a strong position but refrained from criticizing the referee’s decision, stating that his team must congratulate Belgium. Earlier this year, Senegal faced controversy in the African Cup of Nations when they were stripped of the title after a dispute with officials.

The match stood out as one of the most thrilling and unpredictable encounters of the tournament, showcasing Belgium’s resilience and Senegal’s unexpected collapse in the closing stages.