Belgium will face Senegal in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Seattle Stadium, United States, on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 3:30 a.m. The match is expected to be one of the most exciting ties of the knockout stage, featuring two teams that have found their form after difficult starts to the tournament.
Although Belgium advanced to the knockout stage as Group G winners, the Red Devils only truly impressed in their final group match, where they cruised to a 5-1 victory over New Zealand. In their previous two matches, Belgium had managed only a 1-1 draw against Egypt and a 0-0 draw with Iran.
Senegal also secured a place in the knockout stage as one of the best third-placed teams. The Lions of Teranga claimed their first victory only in their final group match, defeating Iraq 5-0 after earlier losses to France (3-1) and Norway (3-2).
Despite Senegal’s resurgence, Belgium remains the slight favorite thanks to its superior individual quality and international experience. If the Red Devils can replicate the clinical performance they produced against New Zealand, they have a strong chance of reaching the Round of 16.
One of Belgium’s standout performers in that match was Leandro Trossard. The Arsenal winger delivered an outstanding display, scoring twice and coming close to completing a hat-trick.
Trossard believes Belgium is heading in the right direction ahead of the knockout stage.
“We played well. We’re happy to finish at the top of the group. Now we’re heading into the Round of 32, and we’re all ready to give our best. People in Belgium are very happy. Many of them watched the match,” he said.
In addition to Trossard, experienced stars Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku have also begun to make a significant impact.
Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia said the performances of his senior players were the best response to criticism aimed at the squad, particularly regarding the age of some of its veterans.
“I believe in my players, and I have complete confidence in the leaders of this team. The best answer can only be given on the pitch, and that’s exactly what they have done,” Garcia said.
However, Garcia admitted that Belgium has not yet reached its highest level of performance, although he is pleased with the team’s steady progress.
Senegal Arrives Full of Confidence
While Belgium continues to improve, they must remain cautious. Senegal, who looked on the verge of elimination after losing their opening two matches, now enters the knockout stage full of confidence following its emphatic 5-0 victory over Iraq. That result secured the team’s place among the tournament’s best third-placed finishers.
Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw praised his players for executing the game plan perfectly and expressed hope that the team could carry that momentum into the next round.
Several key players played decisive roles in Senegal’s convincing victory. Abdoulaye Seck drew attention for his contribution to the opening goal, with an emotional celebration dedicated to his late son. Meanwhile, Pape Gueye made a remarkable impact after coming off the bench, scoring twice and providing an assist to transform the match.
With a talented squad, Senegal brings a style built on energy, aggression, and rapid transitions. Their physical strength and pace could create serious problems for Belgium’s defense.
If the Red Devils lose their concentration, they could join Uruguay, Germany, and the Netherlands as another major nation eliminated early from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.***
