2026 World Cup / Egypt made a draw against Belgium
Seattle witnessed a cruel twist of fate as Egypt’s 92-year wait for a World Cup victory stretched on, following a 1-1 draw with Belgium in their Group G opener.
The Pharaohs, backed by a fervent West Coast crowd, seemed destined for glory when Emam Ashour thundered home a stunning 20-yard strike past Thibaut Courtois in the 21st minute. The Al Ahly midfielder’s effort sent the Egyptian faithful into raptures.
But football’s cruel nature struck in the 66th minute. Thomas Meunier’s low cross was turned into his own net by defender Mohamed Hany, under pressure from substitute Romelu Lukaku, introduced just seconds earlier.
Captain Mohamed Salah, celebrating his 34th birthday, saw a second-half header well-saved by Courtois, while Ashour failed to convert the rebound.
Despite dominating large spells, the record seven-time African champions were forced to hold on, securing only their third draw in eight World Cup appearances since their 1934 debut.
Belgium grew into the game, with Kevin De Bruyne striking the post from a free-kick before the presence of Lukaku forced the decisive error.
The result leaves both sides with work to do in a tightly contested group.
