Belgium's comeback in Seattle hinges on Tielemans' late penalty

In Seattle, the Red Devils overturned a 0‑2 deficit against Senegal to clinch a 3‑2 extra‑time win and reach the World Cup round of 16, with Youri Tielemans scoring the decisive penalty deep in the second half of .

The decisive moment arrived deep in the second half of when Tielemans stepped up to convert a penalty, sealing Belgium's victory. Senegal attempted to stall the kick, with players refusing to leave the penalty area and one defender lying on the spot for several minutes, while VAR and officials observed.

Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois said the win gave the team “enormous energy” but reminded that they were only in the round of 16 and still had areas to improve. He added that “when you are down 2‑0 you keep believing” and recalled a similar comeback against Japan, noting that once the equaliser comes, “everything becomes possible.”

Defender Brandon Mechele recalled the early shock of 0‑2, saying it felt impossible to recover, but after pulling one back to 1‑2 the belief returned, and the equaliser sparked a feeling that they had to finish the opponents. He described the extra‑time period as exhausting, with many boys completely spent, yet the squad kept pushing forward.

Mechele said the penalty episode was unlike anything he had ever experienced, noting that “it took endless time before it could be taken” and that the release when Tielemans struck the ball was “incredible” and unforgettable.

The victory propels Belgium into the round of 16, underscoring the squad’s character and resilience after a dramatic comeback on foreign soil.