Belgium made one of the best comebacks in the history of the FIFA World Cup as they clawed their way back into the game after being 2 goals down against Senegal in extra-time to qualify for the last 16.
Senegal had a chance to win a great victory after taking a 2-0 lead. The first half was dominated by Habib Diarra who netted the opening goal by being the first to react to a shot that bounced off the goalpost.
Senegal were given an early chance to double, Ismaila Sarr calmly controlled a long pass and scored past the Belgian goalkeeper.
Belgium looked like being knocked out with just a few minutes to play.
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But the Belgian veteran striker Romelu Lukaku found the back of the net in the 86th minute, taking a pass from Thomas Meunier.
Youri Tielemans was then able to level the score after three minutes as Senegal’s keeper was unable to keep a clean sheet for his team.
The game looked set for a penalty shoot-out; however, Belgium were awarded a penalty in the final minute of extra time following a video review in which it was decided Tielemans was fouled.
Tielemans then calmly exploited the spot-kick in the 125th minute to restore Belgium’s fortunes and take the team into the next round where they will meet the United States.
The US took its spot in the last 16 earlier Wednesday when it defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 after a 24-year drought in knockout-stage victories at the World Cup.
Folarin Balogun had the chance to put the Americans ahead soon after half-time, but was sent off after receiving a red card. Playing with 10 men, the USA kept looking for opportunities.
Malik Tillman sealed the win with a direct free-kick in the last few minutes. The Americans also netted two other goals in the match which were disallowed.
The win broke a US losing streak of 10 matches against Europeans, and paves the way for them to meet Belgium in a last-16 encounter in Seattle.
Also read: Iran earn valuable point against Belgium in 0-0 draw
