The Football Faithful

·2 July 2026

The latest chapter of the FIFA World Cup 2026 delivered high emotions as England narrowly escaped an upset, while Belgium pulled off a stunning comeback against Senegal in one of the tournament’s most thrilling matches.

Here’s a comprehensive recap of Wednesday’s action, including the key highlights and turning points you might have missed overnight.

Winning the World Cup often demands a touch of fortune along the way. England have yet to fully find their stride in North America, but Thomas Tuchel’s side managed to secure their place in the Round of 16.

The Three Lions endured one of their poorest first-half displays in recent major tournament memory, trailing DR Congo at the break. Goalkeeper Lionel Mapasi Nzau produced a string of outstanding saves, while Brian Cipenga’s early strike gave the Congolese the advantage.

DR Congo nearly doubled their lead when Yoane Wissa struck the woodwork, and when England were denied a penalty appeal, it seemed as though their campaign might unravel.

Fortunately for England, they still have Harry Kane. In a competition where the biggest names have been stepping up, it was the England captain’s turn to shine. His header from an Anthony Gordon cross levelled the score with 15 minutes remaining, and the Bayern Munich striker then smashed home an 86th-minute winner to complete the turnaround.

With that, Kane’s tally reached 13 World Cup goals—surpassing the legendary Pele. His five strikes in this edition have ensured England’s survival and renewed hope.

Meanwhile, those who switched off early during Senegal’s clash with Belgium missed one of the tournament’s most remarkable finishes. Senegal looked certain to progress, leading 2-0 with just four minutes of normal time left.

Habib Diarra opened the scoring before Ismaila Sarr added a magnificent second, leaving Belgium’s campaign seemingly finished. But football had other plans.

Romelu Lukaku pulled one back in the 86th minute to spark belief, and moments later, Youri Tielemans powered home a header from Leandro Trossard’s cross to equalise, capitalising on goalkeeper Mory Diaw’s misjudgement to send the match into extra time.

Senegal appeared shell-shocked, and extra time looked destined to end in penalties until late drama struck again. In the dying seconds, Lamine Camara’s desperate challenge brought down Tielemans inside the box, handing Belgium a last-gasp chance to win. The Aston Villa midfielder, who had been fouled, confidently converted the decisive penalty in the 125th minute, sealing Belgium’s victory and ending Senegal’s journey.

After their wild African Cup of Nations final earlier this year, Senegal once again found themselves on the losing end of another dramatic contest.

Elsewhere, the USA ensured that all three co-hosts advanced to the last 16, joining Canada and Mexico. Mauricio Pochettino’s side dominated Bosnia, with goals from Folarin Balogun and Malik Tillman securing a deserved win—but it came at a cost.

Balogun, who became only the third American player to score three goals in a World Cup, opened the scoring and looked on course for a hat-trick before his night ended abruptly. A challenge involving Bosnia defender Tarik Muharemovic saw Balogun’s foot come down on his opponent’s ankle, prompting Brazilian referee Raphael Claus to issue a red card. Although the incident appeared accidental, the dismissal means Balogun will miss the USA’s upcoming clash with Belgium—a major setback for Pochettino’s men.