Senegal's World Cup journey concluded in dramatic and controversial fashion, as the team suffered a late collapse against Belgium, ultimately losing 3-2 after a penalty in the 125th minute. The match, which featured significant late drama and a pivotal video assistant referee (VAR) decision, saw Senegal outplay their opponents for large portions of the game.
Manager Pape Thiaw's side held a 2-0 lead with only four minutes left in normal time, with goals from Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr putting them in a strong position to advance to the last 16. However, Belgium mounted a late comeback. Romelu Lukaku halved the deficit in the 86th minute, and captain Youri Tielemans equalized from a Leandro Trossard cross three minutes later, forcing the match into extra time.
The decisive moment arrived in the 125th minute when a penalty was awarded for a foul by Lamine Camara on Tielemans, following a VAR review. Tielemans converted the penalty, condemning Senegal to an agonizing exit.
This defeat follows earlier heartbreak for Senegal, who were also stripped of their Africa Cup of Nations title earlier this year. The team's exit has been described by commentators as a case of finding "a way to lose the game," despite a strong performance that outmatched their opponents for extended periods. The match was characterized by its late drama, controversy, and a significant emotional toll on the Senegalese squad.