Senegal took a 1-0 lead into half-time against Belgium in their World Cup Round of 32 tie in Seattle after Habib Diarra punished a sluggish opening spell from the Europeans.
Diarra struck in the 24th minute after Ismaila Sarr hit the post. The Crystal Palace forward drove Belgium backwards before Diarra reacted quickest to the rebound and poked home from close range.
Senegal earned their lead through pressure and direct attacking play. They carried greater urgency in the first half and forced Belgium into mistakes across the pitch.
Belgium struggled to settle into the game and never controlled possession in the way many expected. They held only 46 per cent of the ball before the interval and created little threat in attack.
The numbers reflected Senegal’s stronger start. The African side outshot Belgium 6-2 and regularly found space behind Belgium’s midfield line.
Kevin De Bruyne started in a deeper role and tried to connect play, but Senegal closed spaces quickly and disrupted Belgium’s rhythm. Thibaut Courtois remained busy in goal as Belgium’s defence came under repeated pressure.
Romelu Lukaku began the match on the bench as Belgium looked to their remaining senior figures from the so-called golden generation. Their campaign had already raised questions after a mixed group stage that brought one win and two draws.
Belgium now head into the second half facing possible elimination, while Senegal sit 45 minutes away from a place in the next round against either the United States or Bosnia and Herzegovina.
