Belgium advanced to the last 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Senegal, sealed by a Youri Tielemans penalty deep in extra time following a VAR review.

Senegal appeared to be heading through after taking a lead that held into the final stages, but Belgium refused to surrender, scoring two late goals to level matters and force extra time.

With the tie still finely balanced in the additional period, the VAR intervened to award Belgium a penalty — and Tielemans stepped up to convert, sending his side into the knockout rounds.

The result is a significant blow for Senegal, who had performed strongly enough over the course of the match to believe they were on course for a place in the round of 16. Belgium's resilience and their clinical finishing in the closing stages ultimately proved the difference.

Belgium now progress to the last 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026, where they will face their next challenge in the knockout phase.