Belgium and Senegal are set to face off for the first time in a historic Round of 32 match at the 2026 World Cup.
The fixture pits the technical skill and individual talent of the Red Devils against the physical power and speed of the Lions of Teranga.
Belgium secured the top spot in Group G after a demanding group stage against Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand. Rudi Garcia's squad started with two early draws, raising questions about their finishing ability.
However, they silenced the doubters with a commanding 5-1 victory over the Kiwis, led by standout performances from Kevin De Bruyne, Leandro Trossard, and Romelu Lukaku.
Senegal's path to the knockout stage was more precarious. They finished third in Group I with three points and a +2 goal difference, which was just enough to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams.
Their journey included a 3-1 loss to France, a narrow 3-2 defeat against Norway featuring a brace from Haaland, and a decisive 5-0 thrashing of Iraq to keep their tournament hopes alive.
Belgium vs. Senegal: Key Stats
In their last five matches, Belgium has recorded three wins and two draws, while Senegal has one win, one draw, and three losses.
The Red Devils boast an impressive goal difference of +11 over their last five games, scoring 13 and conceding only 2.
The Lions of Teranga have a goal difference of +1, with 10 goals scored and 9 conceded in their last five outings.
Head-to-Head History
This will be the first-ever meeting between the two national teams, in either a competitive or friendly match.
Predicted Lineups
Belgium (4-3-3): Thibaut Courtois; Timothy Castagne, Arthur Theate, Brandon Mechele, Maxim De Cuyper; Youri Tielemans, Hans Vanaken, Kevin De Bruyne; Leandro Trossard, Charles De Ketelaere, Jeremy Doku.
Coach: Rudi Garcia
Senegal (4-2-3-1): Mory Diaw; Krépin Diatta, Kalidou Koulibaly, Moussa Niakhaté, Ismail Jakobs; Pape Matar Sarr, Idrissa Gana Gueye; Ismaila Sarr, Iliman Ndiaye, Nicolas Jackson; Sadio Mané.
Coach: Pape Thiaw
Injuries and Suspensions
Belgium: Zeno Debast (injured)
Senegal: Edouard Mendy (injured)
Date, Time & How to Watch
The 2026 World Cup match between Belgium and Senegal will be played on Wednesday, July 1, at the Seattle Stadium.
Kickoff is scheduled for 4:00 PM ET (3:00 PM CT / 2:00 PM MT / 1:00 PM PT).
The match will be broadcast on FS1 and Telemundo for fans in the United States. It can be streamed on Fubo, YouTube TV, and FOX Sports.
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