Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.
Belgium produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by recovering from two goals down to defeat Senegal 3 to 2 after extra time, while Harry Kane scored twice to send England into the Round of 16 with a 2 to 1 victory over DR Congo. The results set up the next knockout fixture, with Belgium awaiting the winner of the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina in the last 16.
Belgium complete astonishing turnaround
Senegal appeared on course for a famous victory after dominating for most of the match and holding a 2 to 0 lead with just five minutes remaining in normal time.
Belgium found a lifeline in the 86th minute when Romelu Lukaku converted from close range to reduce the deficit.
Three minutes later, Youri Tielemans headed home the equaliser after a dangerous cross caused confusion inside the Senegal penalty area, forcing the match into extra time.
Tielemans wins it after VAR drama
The contest looked destined for a penalty shootout before Belgium earned one final opportunity deep into stoppage time of extra time.
Following a lengthy VAR review, referee Saíd Martínez awarded Belgium a penalty after Lamine Camara was judged to have fouled Tielemans inside the area.
Tielemans calmly converted the spot kick in the 125th minute to seal a remarkable 3 to 2 victory and send Belgium into the Round of 16.
The dramatic finish left Senegal heartbroken after controlling much of the contest before conceding twice late in regulation and again in the final moments of extra time.
Kane inspires England comeback
England also had to recover from an early setback against DR Congo.
Trailing 1 to 0 at half time, the Three Lions responded through captain Harry Kane, who scored twice after the break to secure a 2 to 1 victory.
The win booked England's place in the Round of 16 and avoided what would have been another disappointing early World Cup exit.
United States chase last 16 berth
Attention has now turned to the United States, which is attempting to join fellow co hosts Canada and Mexico in the Round of 16.
The Americans face Bosnia and Herzegovina in Santa Clara, with the winner earning a meeting against Belgium in the next round.
Christian Pulisic has been central to the United States attack, while Folarin Balogun thought he had given the hosts an early lead before his goal was ruled out for offside.
The United States also appealed unsuccessfully for a first half penalty after Balogun went down inside the area, with VAR confirming the referee's decision to play on.
Weston McKennie and Antonee Robinson combined to create one of the best early chances for the hosts, while veteran striker Edin Džeko tested goalkeeper Matt Freese at the other end.
With Belgium already through after its extraordinary comeback, the winner in Santa Clara will complete the Round of 16 matchup in what promises to be another intriguing knockout contest.
