Youri Tielemans stepped up in stoppage time of extra time to convert a penalty and secure a 3-2 victory for Belgium against Senegal in Seattle – a result that keeps their World Cup dreams alive.
The drama came just minutes after Senegal had fought back from two goals down, forcing extra time with a late equaliser. But it was Tielemans who had the final say from the spot, sparking wild celebrations among the Belgian players and staff.
“Youri Tielemans scores stoppage-time penalty to give Belgium a 3-2 extra-time win over Senegal, keeping their World Cup hopes alive.”
The match had earlier been defined by an extraordinary flashpoint during a hydration break. Television cameras caught Leandro Trossard and Tielemans engaged in a heated argument, clearly frustrated with each other as Belgium struggled to break down a resolute Senegal side.
Remarkably, the same two players combined moments later to score the crucial equaliser. Trossard provided the assist, and Tielemans finished clinically, turning their on-field dispute into a moment of redemption. That goal pulled Belgium level and set the stage for an extended battle.
Belgium then took the lead in extra time, only for Senegal to equalise again, setting up the dramatic late penalty. Tielemans, the man who had argued with his teammate during the break, stepped forward to smash home the winner from 12 yards, sending Belgium through and consigning Senegal to more late penalty heartache at a major tournament.
The victory keeps Belgium's World Cup hopes intact, while Senegal are left to rue another agonising exit from a global competition.