Belgium made a disappointing start to their World Cup campaign. It wasn't until the final group-stage match that they finally showcased their attacking quality. A convincing 5-1 victory over New Zealand certainly caught the eye, but the Red Devils now face a much tougher challenge in the Round of 32 against Senegal. What can we expect from this clash?
- Belgium have conceded just two goals in their last five matches
- Senegal have won only one of their previous five games
- The match will be officiated by Honduran referee Said Martinez
Belgium vs Senegal Prediction
Belgium looked unusually disorganized in their group-stage matches against Egypt and Iran. They struggled to break down compact defenses, moved the ball too slowly, and lacked creativity in the final third. There was plenty to criticize about the Red Devils' performances.
Our Pick: Over 2.5 Goals – Odds 2.15 (115)
Senegal, on the other hand, preferred a much more adventurous style of football, although that often left them vulnerable at the back. We expect another open contest here, with both teams creating chances and goals likely to follow.
| Date and timeKick-off: | 4:00 PM ET (USA) / 9:00 PM CEST |
| Broadcast | Check on FIFA official site |
| Odds on Belgium to win | 2.20 (120) |
| Odds on Senegal to win |
3.50 (250) |
Belgium vs Senegal Odds
Despite their rather inconsistent performances at the World Cup, Belgium are considered the favourites to win Wednesday's match by the bookmakers. The odds for a Belgium victory are 2.20 (120). Meanwhile, 3.50 (250) is the price available for a Senegal win. The odds for a draw are almost identical, ranging from 3.20 (220) to 3.30 (230).
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Predicted Lineups
Belgium are unlikely to make many changes to the starting XI that comfortably defeated New Zealand. The creative burden will once again fall on Jeremy Doku, Kevin De Bruyne, and Leandro Trossard, while Charles De Ketelaere is expected to lead the attack. For Senegal, much of the attention will naturally be focused on Sadio Mane, who remains their biggest attacking threat.
- Belgium: Courtois – Castagne, Theate, Mechele, De Cuyper – Tielemans, Vanaken – Doku, De Bruyne, Trossard – De Ketelaere
- Senegal: Mendy – Diatta, Seck, Niakhate, Diouf – P. Gueye, I. Gueye, Camara – Ndiaye, Sarr, Mane
Recent Results
Belgium opened their World Cup campaign with back-to-back draws, sharing the spoils 1-1 with Egypt before playing out a goalless draw against Iran. They finally found top form in their third group-stage match, cruising to a 5-1 victory over New Zealand. Senegal, meanwhile, secured qualification for the knockout stage at the last moment. After defeats to France and Norway, they responded emphatically with a dominant 5-0 win over Iraq.
Belgium – Last Five Matches
27.06.2026: New Zealand 1:5 Belgium (FIFA World Cup)
21.06.2026: Belgium 0:0 Iran (FIFA World Cup)
15.06.2026: Belgium 1:1 Egypt (FIFA World Cup)
06.06.2026: Belgium 5:0 Tunisia (Friendly)
02.06.2026: Croatia 0:2 Belgium (Friendly)
Senegal – Last Five Matches
26.06.2026: Senegal 5:0 Iraq (FIFA World Cup)
23.06.2026: Norway 3:2 Senegal (FIFA World Cup)
16.06.2026: France 3:1 Senegal (FIFA World Cup)
10.06.2026: Saudi Arabia 0:0 Senegal (Friendly)
31.05.2026: USA 3:2 Senegal (Friendly)
Belgium vs Senegal – FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 Preview
Belgian supporters are far from satisfied with what they have seen from their team so far. The Red Devils have often looked poorly organized, something their group-stage opponents were quick to exploit. Facing an energetic and attack-minded Senegal side will provide a much sterner test. Most of the previous Round of 32 matches have been relatively cautious affairs, but this one has all the ingredients to become a far more open and entertaining contest.
Broadcast Information
Belgium take on Senegal on Wednesday, July 1, with kick-off scheduled for 4:00 PM ET (USA) / 9:00 PM CEST. Broadcast availability depends on your country. You can find the official list of broadcasters on the FIFA website.The match will be refereed by Said Martinez of Honduras.