Rudi Garcia steers Belgium to dramatic World Cup comeback over Senegal

In the round‑of‑16 match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Belgium trailed Senegal 0‑2 until the 86th minute. Coach Rudi Garcia responded by substituting Jeremy Doku and Kevin De Bruyne for Dodi Lukebakio and Nicolas Raskin. The replacements helped Belgium level the score, and Youri Tielemans scored the decisive penalty in the 125th minute – the latest goal in World Cup history – sending the Red Devils into the quarter‑finals.

Garcia’s post‑match interview sparked controversy when he said, “We know such teams lose tactical structure at the end of the game,” a comment many interpreted as targeting African sides. He later clarified on X that his remarks were not aimed at African teams and could apply to any side unfamiliar with high‑pressure World Cup situations, posting statements in English and French.

The match also featured a brief on‑field dispute between Belgian players Tielemans and Leandro Trossard, which teammates broke up. In the aftermath, Belgian fans launched a humorous “sorryrudi.be” website where over a thousand supporters posted apologies and messages of support for the coach.