Belgium overturned a 2-0 deficit against Senegal as substitute Romelu Lukaku netted in the 86th minute, followed by a Tielemans header two minutes later. The comeback pushed the match into extra time and set the stage for a dramatic finish.

In the 117th minute, Lamine Camara fouled Tielemans, prompting a VAR‑backed penalty. After a tense review, Tielemans calmly converted in the 125th minute, sealing Belgium’s 3-2 victory and sending the nation to a last‑16 showdown.

The win flips Belgium’s World Cup trajectory, offering a chance to face either the USA or Bosnia‑Herzegovina in Seattle. Senegal’s early lead, built by Diarra and Sarr, evaporated under Belgian resilience.

Belgium’s surge demonstrates the importance of late‑game substitutions and disciplined defense, while the controversial penalty underscores VAR’s growing influence on match outcomes.