Egypt took the lead in the 21st minute when Emam Ashour unleashed a 20-yard effort that flew into the bottom corner beyond Thibaut Courtois. The goal came during a confident spell that saw the African side start brightly in their Group G opener in Seattle.
Backed by an energetic crowd on the United States’ west coast, Egypt looked determined to secure their first-ever World Cup victory, having gone eight matches without a win since their debut in 1934. The momentum continued as they pushed for a second goal before the break.
Mostafa Zico came close to extending the advantage when his driven attempt across goal was pushed away by Courtois. Mohamed Salah, captaining the side on his 34th birthday, also tested the Belgian keeper after the restart with a header that was comfortably stopped, while Ashour failed to convert the rebound.
Belgium respond after second-half pressure shift
Belgium gradually grew into the contest, with Kevin De Bruyne striking the outside of the post from a free-kick as they began to assert control. The pressure eventually told after changes from manager Rudi Garcia altered the tempo of the game.
Romelu Lukaku was introduced in the 66th minute, despite limited minutes during the 2025–26 season, and his presence immediately influenced the sequence that followed. Within moments of his arrival, Belgium found a route back into the match.
A low delivery from Thomas Meunier was diverted into his own net by Egyptian defender Mohamed Hany under pressure, with Lukaku nearby as the situation unfolded.
Own goal denies historic breakthrough
The equaliser meant Egypt were again denied a first World Cup win, extending a long wait that stretches across eight matches since their tournament debut. The result also marked only the third time they have avoided defeat at the competition.
Despite leading for much of the contest, Egypt were forced into a tense final phase as Belgium pushed forward in search of a winner. However, the North African side managed to withstand the pressure and hold on for a draw.
Late pressure and missed chances decide the contest
In the closing stages, Belgium continued to threaten but could not complete the turnaround, while Egypt focused on preserving a point. Earlier dominance had slipped away as the match tightened after the break.
The result reflected a game defined by missed opportunities and decisive moments at both ends, with Egypt unable to capitalise on their first-half superiority and Belgium rescued by a fortunate deflection in the second period.