Belgium recovered from an early deficit to secure a 1-1 draw against Egypt in their opening Group G match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on 15 June. Egypt led for much of the contest in Seattle before Belgium found an equalizer during the second half to earn a share of the points.
Egypt made an encouraging start and took the lead in the 19th minute through Emam Ashour. The midfielder struck from outside the penalty area after being set up by Mohamed Salah, giving Egypt the advantage and putting Belgium under pressure.
Belgium controlled large portions of possession during the first half but struggled to create clear chances against a disciplined Egyptian defense. Egypt remained dangerous on the counterattack and carried their one-goal lead into halftime.
The match changed in the 66th minute when Romelu Lukaku entered as a substitute. Belgium equalized almost immediately after his introduction when a dangerous attack resulted in an own goal by Egypt defender Mohamed Hany.
Both sides created opportunities during the closing stages. Belgium pushed for a winner through Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne, while Egypt continued to threaten through Salah and Omar Marmoush. However, neither team was able to find a decisive second goal.
The draw leaves both nations with one point after their opening Group G fixture. The result keeps the group finely balanced alongside Iran and New Zealand, who also played to a draw on the same matchday.
For Egypt, the performance represented a positive start against one of the group’s strongest teams. Belgium, meanwhile, avoided an opening defeat but will look for improvement in their remaining group-stage matches.
Standout Performances
• Emam Ashour scored Egypt’s opening goal in the 19th minute.
• Mohamed Salah provided the assist for Egypt’s goal.
• Romelu Lukaku made an immediate impact after coming on as a substitute.
• Mohamed Hany’s own goal brought Belgium level.
• Thibaut Courtois produced important saves to keep Belgium in the contest.
Turning Point
The decisive moment arrived in the 66th minute when Romelu Lukaku entered the match. Belgium equalized within moments of his introduction as sustained pressure forced an own goal from Mohamed Hany, changing the momentum of the contest and helping Belgium secure a point.
Match Statistics
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026
Stage: Group G
Date: 15 June 2026
Venue: Seattle Stadium, Seattle, Washington, United States
Final Score: Belgium 1-1 Egypt
Half-Time Score: Belgium 0-1 Egypt
Goals
Belgium:
• Mohamed Hany (Own Goal, 66′)
Egypt:
• Emam Ashour (19′)
Points Earned
• Belgium: 1
• Egypt: 1
Sources
• FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Match Centre
• Reuters Match Report
• Associated Press Match Coverage