Garcia: Senegal made a huge mistake with their defensive play

Rudi Garcia has criticised Senegal’s decision to defend a two-goal lead after Belgium came from behind to win 3-2 and reach the 2026 World Cup last 16.

Garcia said Belgium kept believing in the result and pointed to the impact of his substitutes, arguing that a team cannot rely on only 11 players. He also praised the changes he made during the match, saying Belgium improved after adjusting their passing and reducing the long balls.

He added that Senegal lost their tactical shape late on and called their attempt to protect a 2-0 lead a major error. Garcia said the shift in momentum after Belgium’s first goal changed the game completely.

Belgium will face the winner of the United States-Bosnia and Herzegovina tie in the last 16.