The United States has just learned which teams might be contenders in the round of 16 for the 2026 World Cup.
On Wednesday, Belgium staged an impressive comeback to defeat Senegal 3-2 in overtime during their Round of 32 match. This victory sets the stage for a potential clash with the U.S. if they can triumph over Bosnia and Herzegovina later that evening.
A win against Bosnia would mark the U.S. team’s second consecutive advancement to the last 16 of the World Cup, leading them to face a Belgian squad that just executed the tournament’s most extraordinary comeback.
Belgium, known for finishing third in the 2018 World Cup and not making it past the group stage in 2022, still boasts significant talent. Players like Kevin De Bruyne, Jeremy Doku, Romelu Lukaku, and Thibaut Courtois provide enough firepower to keep any opponent on their toes. This depth likely contributed to their victory over Senegal.
But, of course, games don’t always reflect what happens on paper.
Senegal initially took the lead in the 25th minute when Habib Diarra capitalized on a rebound off the post from Ismaila Sarr, making it 1-0.
There was a strange interruption in the 32nd minute as several pitch intruders entered the field, causing officials to halt the match temporarily while security managed the situation.
With Belgian defender Maxim de Kuiper in possession of the ball, security rushed onto the field, which was a shocking sight, and photographs from the match later revealed that multiple individuals were taken away during this odd break.
Despite this oddity, the game continued, and Senegal expanded their lead early in the second half. Sarr scored again in the 51st minute, making it 2-0 and pushing Senegal within grasp of the last 16 for the second straight time.
However, Belgium wasn’t ready to fold just yet. Lukaku sparked their efforts in the 86th minute by setting up Thomas Meunier, who halved Senegal’s lead.
Shortly after, Youri Tielemans leveled the score at 2-2 with a deft touch from Leandro Trossard. Suddenly, the previously assured Senegalese side found themselves in turmoil.
This comeback was somewhat surprising, especially since key players De Bruyne and Doku had only entered the game as substitutes. Yet, Lukaku, who came in at halftime, played a pivotal role right away.
After leveling the score late in regulation, Tielemans stepped up during a penalty kick in the 120+5 minute, scoring the winning goal and completing the remarkable comeback for Belgium.
With Senegal going from a 2-0 lead to an early exit, the focus shifts to the Americans.
The U.S. is set to play against Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday night. If they win, they’ll face Belgium next.
The USMNT is favored to advance to the quarterfinals if they can secure a draw in the Round of 32. Initially, it seemed like they might avoid Belgium altogether, but that’s no longer the case.
Belgium’s comeback victory has undoubtedly raised the stakes for the Americans. Yet, first, they need to handle Bosnia before contemplating their next steps.
Belgium awaits.
