In a dramatic World Cup encounter, Belgium triumphed over Senegal with a final score of 3-2, marking one of the most remarkable comebacks in tournament history. The decisive goal came from a penalty executed by Youri Tielemans in the dying moments of the game, specifically at 120+5 minutes.
Senegal initially led the match, with a goal from Diarra in the first half. Following the break, Sarr doubled the score for Senegal, pushing them closer to an upset victory.
However, Belgium’s coach Rudi Garcia made pivotal substitutions that changed the game. Players introduced during the match, Meunier and Lukaku, combined to create the first goal for Belgium in the 86th minute, followed by Tielemans equalizing just three minutes later.
Thrilling Extra Time: A Record Late Goal
The extra time was evenly matched, with fans anticipating a penalty shootout. The turning point came in the 118th minute when Tielemans was fouled in the box by a Senegalese defender. Initially overlooked by referee Martinez of Honduras, the VAR system intervened, prompting the official to review the incident and award a penalty after a three-minute delay.
With the clock showing 120+1 minutes, tension mounted as players from both teams engaged in a fraught exchange, delaying the penalty kick execution.
Ultimately, Tielemans converted the penalty, striking the ball perfectly into the side netting, leaving Senegal’s goalkeeper Diaw with no chance. This goal, recorded at 120+5 minutes, is recognized as the latest goal ever scored in World Cup history, according to Opta statistics.
The previous record for the latest goals were as follows: 124:44 – Youri Tielemans vs. Senegal (2026), 120:49 – Abdelmoumene Djabou (Algeria) vs. Germany (2014), 120:13 – Alessandro Del Piero (Italy) vs. Germany (2006), 119:51 – Geoff Hurst (England) vs. Germany (1966), and 119:23 – David Platt (England) vs. Belgium (1990).
Next Up for Belgium: Round of 16
Belgium is now set to face the winner of the match between the USA and Bosnia in the round of 16. This match is scheduled for July 6 in Seattle and will be broadcast on Antena 1, with live updates available on GSP.ro.
