Belgium and Senegal face off in the round of 32 of the World Cup 2026. The match takes place this Wednesday, 01 July at 9 PM (BST), at Lumen Field in Seattle.
Both sides come into this knockout clash after securing big wins in their final group games. Belgium thrashed New Zealand 5-1 to top their group, while Senegal put five past Iraq to boost their chances of reaching the knockout stage. This Belgium vs. Senegal prediction points to a hard-fought battle for a place in the last 16.
Belgium vs. Senegal - Head-to-head record
This World Cup knockout clash marks a historic first, as Belgium and Senegal have never faced each other in a senior international match. The complete absence of a shared history adds an extra layer of intrigue and unpredictability to this round of 32 fixture, meaning no past results exist to guide predictions for the Belgium vs. Senegal encounter.
Without any previous encounters, there are no established tactical patterns or psychological advantages to consider. This makes the upcoming game a truly blank slate, where current form and tournament performance will be the only true indicators of what to expect when they step onto the pitch.
Belgium - Looking to build momentum
Here we take a closer look at Belgium’s current situation. We will analyse the team’s recent form and their latest performances in the tournament. We will also present the probable Belgium vs. Senegal line-ups.
Recent form
Belgium progressed to the knockout stages unbeaten despite a mixed group stage. After drawing with Egypt and Iran, which raised concerns about their attack, they secured a decisive 5-1 win over New Zealand to top their group in the World Cup.
This impressive victory highlighted the squad’s quality, with key players finding form. Leandro Trossard scored twice, and Kevin De Bruyne also found the net. This offensive display has boosted morale and built significant momentum for the upcoming round of 32 match.
However, centre-back Zeno Debast is out with a hamstring injury, a significant loss that could impact their defensive organisation. Despite this setback, Belgium’s potent attack gives them confidence to advance further in the tournament.
Results of the last five matches
Probable line-up for Belgium
Courtois; Mechele, De Cuyper, Ngoy, Castagne; Vanaken, Trossard, De Bruyne, Tielemans, Doku; De Ketelaere.
Manager: Rudi Garcia.
Senegal - High hopes after big win
Let’s take a look at Senegal’s current situation. We will analyse their recent form, their last match, and the standout performers for this crucial game.
Recent form
Senegal experienced a mixed World Cup campaign, initially suffering defeats against France and Norway. However, they bounced back with a decisive 5-0 win over Iraq in their final group game, improving their goal difference and keeping their knockout stage aspirations alive. This victory highlighted their ability to perform under pressure.
The team’s attacking prowess is notable, with Ismaïla Sarr scoring three goals in the tournament. Pape Gueye also made a significant impact, netting twice after coming on as a substitute in the last match. With Sadio Mané providing creative flair, Senegal possesses strong offensive capabilities.
A key concern for Senegal is the absence of first-choice goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, who is out with a ligament injury. His invaluable experience and shot-stopping skills will be a considerable loss, creating a defensive vulnerability. This could prove a decisive factor in the upcoming Belgium vs. Senegal encounter, placing added pressure on their attacking players.
Results of the last five matches
Probable line-up for Senegal
Diaw; Niakhaté, Diatta, Diouf, Seck; Camara, P. Gueye, I. Gueye; Ndiaye, Mané, Sarr.
Manager: Pape Thiaw.
Belgium vs. Senegal - Stats
- Belgium are unbeaten in this World Cup, with one win and two draws in the group stage.
- Senegal have lost two of their three matches in the tournament so far.
- Belgium’s matches in the competition have averaged 2.67 total goals.
- Senegal’s games have been high-scoring, with an average of 4.67 total goals per match.
- Belgium: Leandro Trossard is the team’s top scorer in the tournament with two goals.
- Senegal: Ismaïla Sarr has been directly involved in four goals, scoring three and assisting one.
Predictions for Belgium vs. Senegal - Red Devils to advance
Belgium enter this knockout match with huge confidence after their 5-1 thrashing of New Zealand. With an attack featuring Trossard and De Bruyne in top form, a decisive result with over 2.5 goals is a strong possibility.
Senegal also impressed with a 5-0 victory, but their defence has looked vulnerable, a problem worsened by the absence of their first-choice goalkeeper. This could allow Belgium"s potent attack to take an early advantage and lead at half-time.
Given the European side"s momentum and their opponents" defensive concerns, our main prediction is for a Belgium win. The Red Devils have the attacking quality to overcome Senegal and secure their place in the next round of the World Cup.
| Belgium x Senegal | ||
| Tip | Tip | Best Odd |
| Double Chance & Over/Under | Either team to win and over 2.5 goals | at BetMGM |
| Money Line | Belgium to be winning at half-time | at BetMGM |
The odds mentioned were collected at the time of writing this prediction and are subject to change. Always check the bookmaker"s site for up-to-date information.
Best markets to bet on Belgium vs. Senegal
Find more recommended bets on Belgium vs. Senegal for this knockout stage match. We have analysed other markets to bring you two more valuable tips.
🔥 Goals - Over/Under - Half Time: +0.5 - 0.00 at BetMGM
Both teams have potent attacks, so an early goal seems quite likely. Belgium, especially, will aim to press from the start, making a first-half goal a probable outcome.
🔥 Corners - Over/Under: +8.5 - 0.00 at BetMGM
The game’s open nature should lead to plenty of set-piece situations. This suggests the total corner count could be high as both sides push for goals.
Where to watch Belgium vs. Senegal?
Here is where to watch Belgium vs. Senegal live:
- TV: ITV 1 (Gbr), ITV X (Gbr), STV (Gbr), UTV (Gbr), BBC Sport (Gbr)
- Streaming: BBC Radio 5 Live (Gbr), STV Player (Gbr), BBC Sport app (Gbr), BBC iPlayer (Gbr)
Belgium vs. Senegal - Match details
Check out the match details:
- Match: Belgium vs. Senegal
- Competition: World Cup 2026
- Date: 01/07/2026
- Kick-off: 9 PM (BST)
- Venue: Lumen Field, Seattle, United States
- Broadcast:
- UTV (Gbr), STV (Gbr), STV Player (Gbr), BBC Radio 5 Live (Gbr), BBC iPlayer (Gbr), ITV 1 (Gbr), ITV X (Gbr), BBC Sport app (Gbr), BBC Sport (Gbr),
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