Belgium top Group A unbeaten but face a Senegal side desperate to prove their quality. Can the Red Devils' depth overcome the Lions of Teranga's pace?
In a clash of styles and continents, Belgium and Senegal meet in the Last 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Red Devils topped Group A with five points, grinding out draws against Iran and Egypt after an opening thrashing of New Zealand. Senegal, meanwhile, finished third in Group B despite a stunning 5-0 win over Iraq, but back-to-back losses to Norway and France have left them needing a statement performance. This is a knockout fixture that promises tension, flair, and tactical intrigue.
Summary
Belgium enter this match as group winners, but their recent form suggests vulnerability. A 1-1 draw with Egypt and a 0-0 stalemate against Iran exposed a lack of cutting edge against compact defences. However, their 5-1 demolition of New Zealand showcased their devastating counter-attacking potential. Senegal, after a bright start against Iraq, have wobbled defensively, conceding six goals in two defeats. The Lions of Teranga must tighten up to contain Belgium's array of attacking talent.
Team News & Form
Belgium have no major injury concerns. Kevin De Bruyne remains the creative heartbeat, while Romelu Lukaku's physical presence is a key weapon. The defence, marshalled by Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld, has been solid but can be exposed by pace. Senegal rely heavily on Sadio Mané, now playing as a central striker, and the energy of midfielders like Idrissa Gueye and Nampalys Mendy. Full-back Ismail Jakobs offers width, but the backline has looked shaky against quick transitions.
Recent form: Belgium (W-D-D), Senegal (W-L-L). The Red Devils have shown resilience, while Senegal have the firepower to trouble any side but must shore up their defence.
Key Players
- Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium): The midfield maestro dictates tempo and can unlock defences with a single pass. His set-piece delivery is also a major threat.
- Sadio Mané (Senegal): Now leading the line, Mané's movement and finishing make him Senegal's most dangerous outlet. He thrives on through balls and crosses.
- Romelu Lukaku (Belgium): A proven goalscorer who can hold up play and bring others into the game. His aerial ability is a key weapon.
- Édouard Mendy (Senegal): The goalkeeper's shot-stopping and command of his area will be vital against Belgium's forwards.
Predicted Lineups
Belgium (3-4-2-1): Courtois; Alderweireld, Vertonghen, Denayer; Castagne, Tielemans, De Bruyne, Carrasco; Hazard, Trossard; Lukaku.
Senegal (4-3-3): É. Mendy; Jakobs, Koulibaly, Diallo, Sabaly; N. Mendy, Gueye, Diatta; Sarr, Mané, Dia.
Key Battles
De Bruyne vs Gueye: Senegal's midfield enforcer must close down De Bruyne's space. If the Belgian gets time on the ball, he can pick apart the defence.
Mané vs Vertonghen: The veteran Belgian defender will need support to handle Mané's pace and trickery. A key duel that could decide the game's flow.
Lukaku vs Koulibaly: Two physical titans. Koulibaly's strength and reading of the game will be tested by Lukaku's power and movement.
Head-to-Head
These sides have met only once before, a friendly in 2018 that Belgium won 1-0. That result offers little insight, but both teams have evolved significantly since. This is their first competitive meeting, adding an extra layer of intrigue.
Score Prediction
Belgium's experience and tactical discipline should see them through, but Senegal's pace on the break will cause problems. Expect a tight contest with moments of quality. Prediction: Belgium 2-1 Senegal
Where to Watch
Kick-off is at 20:00 UTC on 1 July 2026. Check local listings for broadcasters. For live updates and analysis, visit our fixtures page and standings page. Follow Belgium's journey here and Senegal's here.
