Egypt came within touching distance of recording their first ever FIFA World Cup victory before a second half own goal allowed Belgium to escape with a 1-1 draw in their opening Group G match in Seattle.
The North Africans produced an impressive display and looked set to create a landmark moment in their football history after taking a deserved lead midway through the first half. Midfielder Emam Ashour was the hero early on, unleashing a powerful effort from around 20 yards that flew beyond Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and into the bottom corner.
The goal sparked celebrations among the large Egyptian crowd in attendance, who sensed their team could finally end a winless World Cup run stretching back to their tournament debut in 1934.
Egypt nearly strengthened their advantage before halftime. Mostafa Zico struck a low effort across goal that forced Courtois into an important save, preventing Belgium from falling further behind.
The seven time Africa Cup of Nations champions continued to threaten after the break. On his 34th birthday, captain Mohamed Salah came close to doubling the lead when his header was brilliantly kept out by Courtois. Ashour then had an opportunity from the rebound but failed to direct his attempt on target.
Belgium gradually grew into the contest and began applying sustained pressure. Kevin De Bruyne almost produced the equaliser when his free kick clipped the outside of the post as the European side searched for a way back into the game.
Manager Rudi Garcia then turned to Romelu Lukaku, introducing Belgium’s all time leading scorer in the 66th minute. The striker had endured a difficult 2025-26 campaign with Napoli due to hamstring problems and had managed only 40 minutes of Serie A action before this tournament.
His arrival immediately changed the momentum. Moments after stepping onto the pitch, Lukaku’s movement inside the penalty area created uncertainty in the Egyptian defence. Thomas Meunier delivered a dangerous low cross and defender Mohamed Hany, under pressure from the Belgian forward, accidentally diverted the ball into his own net.
With the scores level, Egypt were forced to withstand a tense finish. While they could not secure the historic victory they craved, they successfully avoided defeat and earned only the third World Cup draw in their history.
For Belgium, it was a point rescued. For Egypt, it was a night that showed promise, pride and just how close they came to making history.
