Belgium Stages Incredible Comeback Against Senegal in World Cup Thriller

Belgium secured a place in the World Cup last 16 after a remarkable comeback against Senegal, winning 3-2 in extra time. Senegal led 2-0 with just four minutes remaining in normal time, but Belgium staged an incredible fightback, scoring twice to force extra time where a controversial penalty decided the match.

Late Drama Seals Belgian Victory

Senegal appeared to be cruising into the knockout stages, leading through goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr. However, Romelu Lukaku’s 86th-minute strike ignited Belgium’s hopes, and captain Youri Tielemans headed home an equalizer from a Leandro Trossard cross just three minutes later. The pair, who had been seen arguing earlier in the match, combined to send the tie into extra time.

The decisive moment came in the 125th minute when a penalty was awarded to Belgium for a Lamine Camara challenge on Tielemans, following a VAR review. Tielemans converted the spot-kick to complete the comeback and send Senegal crashing out.

Historical Context and Controversy

This dramatic turnaround marks a significant moment in World Cup history. Belgium became the first team to trail by two or more goals in regulation time and avoid defeat since they themselves came from behind against Japan in 2018. Germany is the only other nation to have achieved such a feat, doing so against Hungary in 1954 and England in 1970.

However, the penalty award was met with considerable debate. Former England defender Gary Neville and ex-Republic of Ireland captain Roy Keane both expressed doubts about the legitimacy of the challenge, with Keane describing the penalty as “a bit harsh” and noting the referee’s lengthy hesitation. The VAR review process also drew criticism for its duration.

Senegal’s Heartbreak

For Senegal, the defeat brings echoes of their Africa Cup of Nations final experience earlier this year. In that tournament, they were controversially stripped of their title after a stoppage-time penalty against them was awarded following a VAR check, leading to their coach ushering his team off the field. Manager Pape Thiaw expressed his disappointment, stating, “We’re out – it hurts. We must congratulate the team, who gave it their all, but unfortunately we weren’t able to hold on to our two-goal lead. We have to accept this. That’s football.”

Belgium’s Resilience

Despite questions surrounding their form, particularly for striker Romelu Lukaku who had limited club football last season, Belgium demonstrated their resilience and the enduring quality of their experienced players. Thomas Meunier provided the assist for Lukaku’s goal, and goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois remains a key figure. While Kevin De Bruyne was substituted early in the second half, his creativity is expected to be vital as Belgium progresses.

Key facts

This match highlights the unpredictable nature of the World Cup and the fine margins that can decide footballing fates. For Belgium, it’s a testament to their never-say-die attitude. For Senegal, it’s a devastating exit marked by a late collapse and contentious decisions.

Source: BBC Sport Football, https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/ckg8e2ezvzyo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss