FIFA World Cup 2026: Belgium Edge Senegal 3-2 in Extra Time as Kane Fires England Through

Belgium Grind Out Extra-Time Thriller Against Senegal

The FIFA World Cup 2026 delivered high drama as Belgium defeated Senegal 3-2 after extra time in a match that refused to follow a straightforward script. Belgium looked in control for long stretches, building a lead that appeared comfortable, but Senegal refused to fold. The African side clawed their way back to level the score and force the additional 30 minutes. Belgium ultimately found a way through, securing the win and advancing in the tournament.

The result was a reminder of how competitive this World Cup has become. Senegal, one of Africa's most consistent sides in recent years, pushed Belgium to their absolute limit and will feel the narrow defeat keenly. Three goals in a losing effort shows the attacking quality they brought to the game, but conceding three proved too much to overcome.

Belgium's progression sets up what promises to be a compelling next round. Their squad, still carrying considerable experience from their so-called golden generation, showed resilience when it mattered most in extra time.

Kane Helps England Overcome DR Congo

England had a slightly more comfortable evening, with Harry Kane playing a key role in seeing off the Democratic Republic of Congo. Kane, the Bayern Munich striker and England captain, contributed to a victory that keeps England's World Cup 2026 campaign firmly on track.

England have been under scrutiny throughout the build-up to this tournament, with questions about whether this squad can go deep into a major competition after near-misses at recent European Championships. A win over DR Congo, while not against the very top tier of opposition, gives the squad confidence and momentum heading into the knockout rounds.

DR Congo made their presence felt and did not simply roll over, but England had enough quality to see the contest through. Kane's involvement underlines why the captaincy and the number nine shirt remain his, even as the debate about England's attacking options continues.

USA Prepare for Bosnia and Herzegovina

With Belgium and England through, attention turns to the United States, who are preparing to face Bosnia and Herzegovina. The host nation enters the fixture carrying the weight of expectation that comes with playing on home soil at a first expanded 48-team World Cup.

The USA have the advantage of enormous crowd support across their home stadiums, and the squad will be eager to repay that backing with a strong performance. Bosnia and Herzegovina represent a well-organized European side with individual quality, so the Americans cannot afford to be complacent.

The expanded format of the 2026 tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, means more teams and more matches, but also more opportunity for upsets. The USA will be acutely aware that home advantage only counts for so much once the ball is rolling.

A World Cup Delivering on its Promise

Across these three fixtures, the FIFA World Cup 2026 is already producing the kind of unpredictable, high-stakes football that makes the tournament the biggest sporting event on the planet. Extra-time thrillers, individual brilliance from established stars like Kane, and heavyweight nations pushing each other to the limit all point to a competition that has plenty more to offer.

The bracket is tightening and the margins are getting smaller. Every match from here carries the real possibility of elimination, which is precisely what makes the World Cup so compelling to follow.