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Cruel end for Senegal in Seattle at World Cup

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Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup 2026 - Round of 32 - Belgium v Senegal - Seattle Stadium, Seattle, Washington, US - July 1, 2026 Senegal's El Hadji Malick Diouf looks dejected after the match as Senegal are eliminated from the World Cup.

Photo credit: Reuters

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw described football as a "cruel game" after his side's late collapse and eventual defeat by Belgium following extra time in the World Cup round of 32 on Wednesday.

Senegal looked to be a few minutes from confidently dispatching their opponents with a 2-0 win when Belgium equalised with two goals in three minutes and then won 3-2 with a Youri Tielemans penalty late in the extra period.