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Seattle Stadium witnessed a potential upset as Senegal took firm control of their Round of 32 clash against Belgium, delivering a tactical masterclass that left the European heavyweights reeling.

Belgium had entered the knockout stage with question marks hanging over their form, having managed only lackluster draws against Egypt and Iran in the group phase—briefly offset by a 5–1 demolition of New Zealand. But any hopes of a smooth ride quickly evaporated as the Lions of Teranga seized command from the outset.

Senegal's aggressive approach paid off in the 24th minute. Sadio Mané delivered a looping cross to Ismaïla Sarr, whose powerful header struck the far post. The rebound fell kindly to midfielder Habib Diarra, who slotted home to give Senegal a deserved lead.

Belgium responded by introducing Romelu Lukaku at halftime, but Sarr had other plans. Just six minutes into the second half, the electric winger produced a moment of pure brilliance. He timed his run perfectly to chase down Moussa Niakhaté's long, looping pass from deep in Senegal's half, controlled the dropping ball effortlessly on his chest, and unleashed a stunning right-footed volley that rocketed past a helpless Thibaut Courtois.

That two-touch masterpiece doubled Senegal's lead to 2–0 and left Kevin De Bruyne and his star-studded teammates shell-shocked, staring down the very real possibility of an early World Cup elimination.