Belgium Scores Twice Late to Eliminate Senegal from 2026 World Cup

Senegal held a 2-0 lead against Belgium in the round-of-32 match before conceding twice in the final five minutes of regulation and once from a penalty in extra time. The 3-2 defeat eliminated Senegal from the 2026 World Cup on July 1 in Seattle. Former Senegal international Ferdinand Coly said the substitutions altered the midfield and removed the team's structure.

He stated that Senegal controlled the match until the 85th minute and then retreated after Belgium's first goal.

Fan and player reactions Supporter Ibrahima Diop said the absence of traveling fans due to visa restrictions affected the team's concentration. He noted that Senegal had played without its usual home support throughout the tournament. Journalist Babacar Fall said internal disagreements over the coach's contract and player selection created instability before the match.

He added that one substitution 10 minutes from the end disrupted the defensive organization.

Broader context President Donald Trump signed a December proclamation barring business and tourist visas for Senegalese nationals, preventing many supporters from attending matches in the United States. Senegal had reached the knockout stage after winning the Africa Cup of Nations earlier in the year.