- 2026 FIFA World Cup: Belgium beat Senegal after extra time to reach last 16
Belgium booked their place in the last 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after edging Senegal 3-2 in a pulsating extra-time encounter on Wednesday night.
The fiercely contested Round of 32 clash lived up to expectations, with both sides producing an entertaining display that remained finely balanced throughout regular time before Belgium found the decisive breakthrough in the additional 30 minutes.
Belgium entered the knockout fixture determined to keep alive their hopes of lifting a first-ever World Cup title, while Senegal sought to continue an impressive tournament campaign and remain one of Africa’s strongest representatives in the competition.
The match was played at a relentless pace from the opening whistle as both teams created opportunities in an end-to-end contest. Belgium’s attacking quality was matched by Senegal’s resilience, ensuring neither side could establish clear control during normal time.
After 90 minutes failed to separate the teams, the contest headed into extra time, where the intensity only increased. Belgium eventually made their experience count, scoring the crucial goal that sealed a dramatic 3-2 victory despite Senegal’s spirited fightback.
The result ends Senegal’s memorable World Cup journey after another courageous performance against one of Europe’s traditional football powers. The Lions of Teranga pushed Belgium all the way and came close to forcing a penalty shootout, but ultimately fell just short.
For Belgium, the victory extends their stay in North America and keeps their World Cup dream alive as they advance to the last 16. The Red Devils will now shift their attention to the next knockout challenge, knowing the competition becomes even tougher with every passing round.
While Senegal leave the tournament with heads held high after showcasing determination and attacking ambition, Belgium celebrate a hard-fought triumph that could provide valuable momentum as they continue their pursuit of global football’s biggest prize.
