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By Vikram Iyer — 1 July 2026 — 3 min read

Senegal takes early lead against Belgium

Senegal has secured an early lead against Belgium in their World Cup last 32 encounter in Seattle. The goal came from Habib Diarra, who capitalized on a rebound after a flicked header from Ismaila Sarr hit the far post. Sadio Mane initiated the play, delivering a cross from the left side of the field. Diarra’s goal was described as a simple finish, giving Senegal a deserved advantage.

The African side has demonstrated a purposeful and slick performance, playing with confidence. In contrast, Belgium appeared to be struggling to find their rhythm in the early stages of the match. Diarra’s goal marks his eighth in this World Cup, a tally surpassed only by players from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.

Moments before the goal, Ismaila Sarr had another significant opportunity. After Jakobs delivered a cross, Sarr’s shot was deflected by the diving Courtois onto the right-hand post. Despite reacting quickly to the rebound, Sarr could only send the ball into the side netting while on the ground.

Match action and team compositions

Senegal continued to press after taking the lead. Early in the second half, within 30 seconds, Mane’s cross narrowly missed Sarr and reached Ndiaye, who shot wide from 15 yards. Earlier in the match, Mane created another chance, skillfully maneuvering past Castagne in the area and cutting the ball back towards Diarra, who missed from 10 yards.

Belgium showed some signs of improvement as the first half progressed. De Bruyne controlled a difficult ball and passed to Doku on the right, whose cross was held by Diaw after a ricochet off Jakobs. De Cuyper also attempted a curling shot from 25 yards, which was saved by Diaw, who pawed it around the post.

Belgium’s wide forwards, Doku and Trossard, have been identified as crucial components of their team. Trossard had an early shot from the edge of the area that was comfortably saved by Diaw. The team had a decent spell of possession, with De Cuyper finding space on the left side of the area, though his cutback was intercepted by a Senegal defender.

For Senegal, Kalidou Koulibaly, the team captain, was not in the starting lineup due to an injury. Pape Gueye started in place of Lamine Camara, and Pathe Ciss replaced defender Abdoulaye Seck. The forward line featured Iliman Ndiaye alongside Ismaila Sarr and Sadio Mane, with Ibrahim Mbaye on the bench. Senegal advanced to the knockout stage as one of the eight best third-place teams, with coach Pape Bouna emphasizing that the knockout phase is a new competition.

Belgium maintained the same starting lineup from their previous game, a 5-1 victory over New Zealand. They finished first in Group G, having drawn against Egypt and Iran. The match is being played in Seattle.

Other notable moments and observations

The game has been described as a really fun contest, with both teams creating opportunities. Earlier, Idrissa Gueye took a half-volley that was comfortably held by Courtois after Castagne headed away Diatta’s cross. De Ketelaere also had a moment where he dithered and was challenged effectively.

The World Cup timings have been a topic of discussion among fans, with some finding it difficult to stay fully involved due to time zone differences. Despite this, there has been appreciation for the performances of African teams and host countries in the tournament. The match is part of the World Cup last 32 stage.

Source: theguardian.com