Kha Y Tran Belgium drew 1-1 with Egypt in their first Group G match at the 2026 World Cup. Belgium started as the favorite. However, they found it hard to create chances. Egypt defended well throughout the game. As a result, Belgium needed Lukaku’s impact in the second half to earn a point.
The match delivered plenty of drama, with Egypt taking a surprise first-half lead through Ashour before Belgium fought back after Lukaku’s introduction. In the end, both teams earned a point, leaving Group G wide open after the opening round of fixtures.
Watch the match highlights at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8sD2Aea9_M
Belgium Started Brightly but Egypt Struck First
Belgium began the game with confidence and controlled possession from the opening whistle. Kevin De Bruyne looked dangerous early on and nearly opened the scoring in the seventh minute. After a well-worked attacking move, the Belgian captain unleashed a low shot from outside the box, but the ball drifted narrowly wide of the post.
However, Egypt remained composed and showed why they were considered one of the most dangerous teams outside Europe’s traditional powerhouses. While Belgium enjoyed more possession, Egypt looked threatening on the counterattack and exploited spaces behind the Belgian defense.
Their breakthrough arrived in the 20th minute.
Egypt scored first in the 20th minute. The move came from the right side. Ashour received the ball outside the area. He took a touch and shot quickly. The ball beat Courtois and found the net.
Belgium Struggled to Break Through Egypt’s Defense
After conceding, Belgium pushed forward in search of an equalizer. Jeremy Doku repeatedly attempted to create opportunities down the left wing, while De Bruyne looked to dictate the tempo from midfield.
Nevertheless, Egypt defended with discipline and organization. Their compact defensive shape limited Belgium’s chances, forcing the Red Devils into speculative shots and crosses.
As the first half progressed, Belgium increased the pressure. Yet Egypt continued to frustrate their opponents and protected their advantage heading into halftime.
The North African side deservedly entered the break leading 1-0 after executing their game plan almost perfectly.
De Bruyne Hits the Post as Belgium Intensify Pressure
Belgium emerged from the locker room with greater urgency.
They immediately increased the pace of their attacks and pinned Egypt deep inside their own half. As a result, the chances began to arrive more frequently.
Belgium almost equalized in the 53rd minute. De Bruyne took a free kick from a good position. His shot cleared the wall. The effort looked dangerous. However, the ball hit the post.
Unfortunately for Belgium, the post denied him.
The near miss energized Belgium further. Meanwhile, Egypt relied on quick transitions and looked for opportunities through Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush. However, Salah found it difficult to influence the game consistently as Belgium dominated possession.
Lukaku Changes the Match Immediately
With Belgium still trailing midway through the second half, coach Rudi Garcia turned to Romelu Lukaku.
The striker entered the match in the 66th minute, and his impact was immediate.
Lukaku made an instant impact. Belgium attacked from the right wing. A low cross entered the box. Lukaku rushed toward the ball. Hany tried to clear it. However, he accidentally sent it into his own net.
Instead, Hany accidentally diverted the ball into his own net.
The own goal made it 1-1. It also changed the game. Belgium became more confident. Meanwhile, Egypt had to defend deeper. Suddenly, Belgium sensed an opportunity to complete the comeback, while Egypt found themselves under increasing pressure.Although Lukaku did not officially receive the goal, his movement and presence directly caused the equalizer.
Egypt Hold Firm Under Late Belgian Pressure
Belgium pushed forward after the equalizer. De Bruyne continued to create chances. Meanwhile, Lukaku caused problems inside the box. Egypt had to defend deep during the final minutes.
De Bruyne continued to create chances, while Lukaku’s physical presence gave Egypt’s defenders plenty to think about. Several dangerous crosses entered the penalty area, and Belgium looked increasingly likely to score a winner.
Belgium almost scored in the 83rd minute. A player headed the ball from close range. However, goalkeeper Shoubir made an excellent save. Egypt stayed level.
Shortly afterward, Lukaku connected with another aerial delivery, yet his header sailed just over the crossbar.
As the clock ticked down, Belgium continued pushing forward. However, Egypt remained resilient and defended heroically until the final whistle.
After five minutes of stoppage time, the referee ended the contest with the score locked at 1-1.
Lukaku and De Bruyne Remain Belgium’s Key Figures
Although Belgium failed to secure all three points, Lukaku and De Bruyne once again demonstrated their importance to the national team.
De Bruyne controlled large portions of the game and came agonizingly close to scoring with his free-kick effort. Meanwhile, Lukaku transformed the match after coming off the bench and played a decisive role in Belgium’s equalizing goal.
Their experience could prove vital as Belgium continue their World Cup campaign.
However, the performance also highlighted areas that require improvement. Belgium struggled to convert possession into clear chances and often looked vulnerable during defensive transitions.
Egypt Earn Respect After Strong Display
For Egypt, the result represents a significant achievement.
Many fans expected Belgium to win comfortably. However, Egypt played very well. They stayed organized and followed their plan. As a result, they earned an important point. Ashour’s stunning goal provided a memorable moment, while the defensive unit worked tirelessly throughout the match.
Although Mohamed Salah was relatively quiet, Egypt showed they are much more than a one-man team.
Egypt earned a valuable point. The result boosted their confidence. In addition, it improved their chances of reaching the knockout stage.
Belgium vs Egypt Result
Final Score: Belgium 1-1 Egypt
Goalscorers:
- Egypt: Ashour (20′)
- Belgium: Mohamed Hany (Own Goal, 66′)
The draw leaves both teams with one point in Group G and sets up an intriguing battle for qualification as the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage continues.
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