Belgium's Historic Comeback: Tielemans Scores Record-Breaking Penalty in World Cup Clash

Belgium Stuns Senegal with Late Penalty

In a thrilling encounter in Seattle, Belgium achieved a remarkable comeback against Senegal, winning 3-2 after extra time in their Round of 32 match on Wednesday. Youri Tielemans made history by scoring the latest goal ever recorded in FIFA World Cup history with his penalty in the 124th minute and 44th second.

The former Leicester City player converted the penalty following a VAR review that confirmed a foul by Lamine Camara on Tielemans, marking one of the most dramatic victories in the tournament's history, as noted by Opta Analyst.

Belgium also set a new record by becoming the first team to recover from a two-goal deficit in regulation time during a FIFA World Cup match. They were down 2-0 until the 85th minute before launching an incredible comeback.

Senegal had dominated much of the match, with Habib Diarra scoring first after reacting quickly to a rebound from Ismaila Sarr's shot that hit the post. Sarr then extended the lead early in the second half with a composed finish past goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

Sarr's goal marked his fourth of the tournament, tying Roger Milla's record for the most goals by an African player in a single World Cup.

Belgium's resurgence began with substitute Romelu Lukaku, who scored from close range after a delivery from Thomas Meunier. Tielemans then equalized with a header from Leandro Trossard's cross, forcing the match into extra time before sealing the comeback with his record-setting penalty.

Trossard further solidified his status as the tournament's top creator, having created 16 chances, the highest of any player in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Despite the loss, Senegal made history as the first African nation to score 10 goals in a single World Cup edition.

With this victory, Belgium extended their unbeaten streak to 17 matches and advanced to the Round of 16, where they will face the winner of the match between the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Senegal's impressive campaign concluded in a heartbreaking manner.