Both sides will be looking to keep up the momentum after rounding out the group stage with statement wins.
Round of 32
Thursday, 2 July | Seattle Stadium
Kick-off time
04:00 (GMT+8)
The match
The festival of football in Seattle continues with an intriguing FIFA World Cup 2026™ Round of 32 tie between Belgium and Senegal, two teams who finally burst into life after making slow starts to the tournament. Having been held to disappointing draws in their first two games by Egypt and Iran respectively, Belgium produced a five-star display against New Zealand with the help of a star turn from Leandro Trossard.
The goal blitz meant the Red Devils finished top of Group G and booked their place in the knockout stages, having failed to do so at the last World Cup in Qatar.
Senegal, meanwhile, had lost their two previous games against France and Norway and made spectacular amends against Iraq, recording a thumping 5-0 win powered by a brace and an assist from Papa Gueye to finish third in Group I and progress on the strength of their goal difference.
Both sides will be looking to maintain that momentum and earn a spot in the Round of 16, where they will be able to return to Seattle Stadium to face either the USA or Bosnia and Herzegovina again in Seattle.
Belgium possible starting XI
Courtois; Castagne, Mechele, Theate, De Cuyper; Tielemans, Vanaken; Doku, De Bruyne, Trossard; Ketelaere
Senegal possible starting XI
Diaw; Diatta, Seck, Niakhate, Jakobs; Diarra, Gueye, Camara; Mbaye, Sarr, Mane
What they said…
“People are very happy. The atmosphere will be great in my country because we’re going to the next stage. I feel very good. I think we’re growing into the tournament, myself as well.” Leandro Trossard, Belgium forward
“We needed to show that there’s another side to Senegal.“ Papa Gueye, Senegal midfielder.
Seattle Stadium
Seattle Stadium boasts a unique horseshoe shape with an open north end to give a stunning view of the Seattle skyline. Featuring twice in the Guinness World Records as the loudest outdoor stadium, with the feats achieved in September and December 2013, the ground has become known as a fortress for the likes of Major League Soccer side Seattle Sounders and the National Football League’s Seattle Seahawks. At the 2026 World Cup, Seattle has hosted Bosnia and Herzegovina’s 3-1 victory over Qatar, USA’s 2-0 triumph over Australia and Egypt’s 1-1 draw with IR Iran. Belgium have also played in Seattle once already, having drawn 1-1 with Egypt in their first Group G game.