Belgium coach Rudi Garcia explains why his side eliminated Senegal from 2026 World Cup

Two men in suits being interviewed on camera, one holding a blue microphone, with a backdrop covered in sponsor logos.

By Jamaldeen Wiayuka July 2, 2026

Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia says Senegal made a “big mistake” by attempting to protect their two-goal lead during Wednesday’s dramatic World Cup Round of 32 defeat.

The Red Devils came from behind to beat Senegal 3-2 after extra time at Lumen Field, securing their place in the last 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Senegal looked set to progress after Habib Diarra and Ismaila Sarr put them 2-0 ahead.

But Belgium mounted a late recovery, with Romelu Lukaku reducing the deficit before Youri Tielemans scored an equaliser to take the match into extra time.

Tielemans then converted a late penalty to complete the turnaround and end Senegal’s World Cup campaign.

Garcia said Senegal’s decision to sit deeper and defend their lead gave Belgium the belief they needed to fight back.

“Senegal lost their structure at the end of the match,” Garcia said after the game.

“They wanted to hold the score at 0-2, which was a big mistake in my opinion. That gave us confidence.

“Because from that 1-2, the match changed.”

Belgium will now face the United States in the Round of 16.

For Senegal, the defeat will be difficult to take after they were in control for much of the match and held a two-goal advantage with little time remaining.