Youri Tielemans delivered one of the most nerve-shredding moments of the FIFA World Cup 2026, converting a penalty deep into extra time to hand Belgium a 3-2 victory over Senegal in Seattle and secure their passage into the last 16 of the tournament.

With the two sides locked level and the clock ticking past the 90 minutes, Tielemans stepped forward to strike from the spot, sending Belgium through in dramatic fashion and ending Senegal's hopes of advancing from the group stage.

A night to forget for Senegal

Senegal — one of the continent's most celebrated footballing nations and a team their African fans had pinned enormous hopes on — could not hold on when it mattered most. The Teranga Lions fought back in what proved to be a tightly contested encounter, but Tielemans' late intervention proved decisive.

The result means Belgium progress to the knockout rounds, while Senegal must now reflect on a World Cup campaign that promised much but ended in heartbreak on the west coast of the United States.

Tielemans seals it

It was Tielemans who ultimately made the difference, converting the penalty with composure under enormous pressure. The goal, scored in the closing moments of extra time, drew the curtain on a breathless contest in Seattle and confirmed Belgium's place among the last 16 sides remaining in the FIFA World Cup 2026.

For Senegal's passionate African support, the defeat will sting — but the Teranga Lions can leave the tournament knowing they pushed one of Europe's strongest squads to the very limit.