Egypt hold Belgium to 1-1 draw to earn valuable point

Egypt produced a spirited display to hold Belgium to a 1-1 draw in their opening Group G match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday in Seattle. 

The Pharaohs looked on course for a famous victory after taking a first-half lead, but an own goal midway through the second period ensured the points were shared in an entertaining contest watched by more than 68,000 spectators.

The African side made the breakthrough in the 19th minute through Emam Ashour. Mohamed Salah, making his first World Cup appearance since 2018, provided the assist with a clever pass that allowed Ashour to fire past the Belgian goalkeeper and give Egypt a deserved advantage. 

The goal sent Egyptian supporters into celebration as Belgium struggled to find rhythm during the opening half.

Belgium, featuring stars such as Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, dominated possession after the break in search of an equaliser. 

Their pressure eventually paid off in the 66th minute when defender Mohamed Hany inadvertently turned the ball into his own net while attempting to deal with a dangerous attack, bringing the European side level.

The Red Devils continued to push for a winner, creating several opportunities in the closing stages. 

Lukaku, who came under scrutiny for his fitness before the tournament, came closest when he headed over from a promising position late in the match. 

De Bruyne also remained influential, delivering a series of dangerous passes and set-pieces that tested Egypt’s defence.

Egypt refused to retreat despite Belgium’s pressure and continued to threaten on the counterattack. Goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir made important saves, while the defence stood firm against repeated Belgian attacks. 

Salah was substituted after 76 minutes, with teenager Hamza Abdelkarim introduced as Egypt searched for a late breakthrough of their own.

In the end, neither side could find a decisive goal, and the match finished level. The result gives Egypt a valuable point in Group G and extends their wait for a World Cup victory, but the performance will boost confidence heading into their remaining group-stage fixtures. 

Belgium, meanwhile, will feel disappointed not to have converted their superiority into three points as both teams begin their World Cup campaigns with a draw.