Senegal was the more energetic and adventurous side throughout the first half, while Belgium struggled to find a rhythm.
Diarra’s goal reflected the balance of play, with Senegal creating the better opportunities and limiting the Red Devils to only a handful of half-chances that failed to seriously test Mory Diaw.
Belgium did improve after falling behind, growing into the contest as the interval approached, but Senegal deservedly led at the break.
Belgium play the winner of Wednesday’s later game between the United States and Bosnia and Herzegovina, in Seattle on July 6 for a place in the quarter-finals.
