Senegal Lose 3-2 to Belgium After Late VAR Penalty in World Cup Exit
Senegal blown 2-0 lead in dramatic 3-2 defeat to Belgium after controversial VAR-reviewed penalty in final minutes of Round of 32 match.
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Senegal exited the FIFA World Cup following a 3-2 defeat to Belgium in the Round of 32, collapsing after a 2-0 lead amid controversy over a late VAR-awarded penalty.
The match, played in Doha, saw Senegal dominate early with two unanswered goals, only for Belgium to mount a comeback in the second half. According to Al Jazeera, the turning point came late in regulation when officials reviewed a possible foul in the box using VAR, ultimately awarding Belgium a penalty that sparked outrage among Senegalese players and fans.
Belgium converted the spot-kick to take a 3-2 lead, a scoreline that held until full time. Al Jazeera described the moment as "fury-inducing" for Senegal, who had defended resolutely before the pivotal decision.
Belgium advanced as group winners from Group G, having secured five points and finishing ahead of Egypt on goal difference, SABC News reported. The victory sets up a quarterfinal clash against Portugal.
No official explanation from FIFA or match officials was provided in the source material regarding the VAR decision. Senegal's head coach did not comment publicly in the provided sources.