Seattle: Senegal takes lead against Belgium in World Cup last 32 clash

By Thomas Beckwith · Senior Football Correspondent · July 1, 2026

By Thomas Beckwith — 1 July 2026 — 3 min read

First Half Action Sees Senegal Ahead

Senegal has taken a deserved lead against Belgium in their World Cup last 32 encounter in Seattle. The African side displayed slick and purposeful play, demonstrating a notable swagger on the pitch. Habib Diarra opened the scoring for Senegal, capitalising on a rebound after Ismaila Sarr’s flicked header struck the far post. This goal marks the eighth by a Sunderland player in this World Cup, a tally surpassed only by players from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.

Belgium, in contrast, appeared to struggle to find their rhythm in the initial stages of the match. While they had periods of possession, they failed to create significant threats. A corner taken by Belgium saw De Cuyper whip a shot from 25 yards, which was saved by Diaw. Moments later, Kevin De Bruyne controlled a difficult ball and found Doku, whose cross was held by Diaw after a ricochet.

Senegal’s attacking prowess was evident early on. Jakobs delivered a cross towards Ismaila Sarr, whose diving effort hit the right-hand post, with his follow-up shot going into the side netting. Iliman Ndiaye also delivered a brilliant cross after receiving a pass from Diarra, though no teammate was there to convert. Idrissa Gueye had a half-volley comfortably held by Courtois after a clearance from Castagne.

The match, held at Seattle Stadium, is a round of 32 fixture in the 2026 World Cup. Both teams entered this stage following strong performances in their final group games. Belgium secured their spot by topping Group G after a 5-1 victory over New Zealand. Senegal advanced as one of the best third-placed teams, having thrashed a ten-man Iraq side 5-0.

Team Form and Line-ups

Prior to their final group matches, both teams had faced challenges. Belgium drew 1-1 with Egypt and had a goalless draw with Iran, a match where Nathan Ngoy received a red card. Senegal experienced tough fixtures in Group I, losing 3-1 to France and 3-2 to Norway before their decisive win against Iraq. The attacking strength of both sides suggests a potentially high-scoring contest.

For this crucial match, Belgium fielded a team similar to the one that defeated New Zealand. Their predicted line-up included Courtois in goal, with a defensive line of Castagne, Ngoy, Theate, and De Cuyper. The midfield featured Tielemans and Vanaken, supporting an attacking trio of Doku, De Bruyne, and Trossard, with De Ketelaere leading the line. Nathan Ngoy returned from a one-match ban, replacing Brandon Mechele.

Senegal made three changes from their victory against Iraq. Pathe Ciss, Iliman Ndiaye, and Pape Gueye were brought into the starting eleven, replacing Abdoulaye Seck, Ibrahim Mbaye, and Lamine Camara. Mory Diaw started in goal, with Edouard Mendy a major doubt due to a knee injury. The predicted line-up for Senegal featured Diaw; Diatta, Seck, Niakhite, Jakobs; Diarra, I Gueye, Camara; Mbaye, Sarr, and Mane.

Attacking Threats and Defensive Concerns

Both Belgium and Senegal have demonstrated significant attacking capabilities. Senegal’s forward line, featuring players like Sadio Mane and Ismaila Sarr, is considered a strong threat. Sarr, in particular, has been in strong form, having scored 17 goals in his last 30 appearances for club and country. He scored his third goal of the tournament against Iraq and had 12 shots in three group games.

Belgium’s attack, despite a slow start to the tournament, has also shown its potential, notably in their 5-1 win over New Zealand. Leandro Trossard and Kevin De Bruyne each had seven attempts on goal in that match. However, both teams have also shown vulnerabilities in defence, leading to expectations of an open and high-scoring game.

The match is being broadcast live on ITV1, with kick-off scheduled for 9pm BST on Wednesday, July 1.

Source: theguardian.com

Thomas Beckwith

Senior Football Correspondent

As NewsUK's Senior Football Correspondent, Thomas Beckwith reports on the Premier League, the EFL and the England national side for readers across the country. He reported on three World Cups for a national news agency. He holds a degree in Sports Journalism from Sheffield Hallam University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Thomas lives in Sheffield, where he watches lower-league football most weekends. “Football writing is about the decisions, not just the result.”