Belgium and Senegal meet for a last-16 spot

In the World Cup Round of 32, Belgium face Senegal. Ahead of the knockout match to be played at Lumen Field, the two teams' likely lineups have taken shape. The winner will book their place in the last 16.

Belgium reached this round by finishing top of their group. The side managed by Rudi Garcia finished ahead in Group G on goal difference. Standing out with their experienced squad, Belgium will go into the match as favorites. However, the side, who struggled at times in the tournament, appear to be aiming for a steadier look in the knockout round.

Senegal, meanwhile, advanced as one of the best third-placed teams. The side managed by Pape Thiaw lost to France and Norway in the group stage but found morale by beating Iraq 5-0 in their final match, booking their place in the next round. Pace, physical strength and variety in attack are among Senegal's standout traits.

The match referee will be Said Martinez. Whether favorites Belgium can reflect their superiority on the scoreline, and what kind of game Senegal will produce in pursuit of a surprise, will decide the fate of the match. The result in the knockout round will directly affect both nations' futures in the tournament. The likely lineups are as follows:

Image: Sports Illustrated

🇧🇪 Belgium (Garcia) — likely XI (4-2-3-1): Courtois; Castagne, Mechele, Theate, De Kuyper; Vanaken, Tielemans; Trossard, De Bruyne, Doku; De Ketelaere.
🇸🇳 Senegal (Thiaw) — likely XI (4-3-3): Mendy; Diatta, Seck, Niakhaté, Jakobs; I. Gueye, P. Gueye, Camara; Sarr, Jackson, Mané.