2026 World Cup Belgium Egypt 1:1 Draw in Seattle

The opening phase surprisingly belonged clearly to the North Africans. In the 19th minute, Mohamed Aschur capitalized on a perfect cross-field pass from Mohamed Salah and fired immediately from around 20 meters out. The shot was struck with such power and precision that Thibaut Courtois stretched in vain as the ball found the net for the 0:1. The Belgians needed several minutes to recover from going behind, and their best chance before the break fell to a ManCity striker, who, following a throw-in in first-half stoppage time, sent the ball well over the goal.

Lukaku Initiates the Turning Point

After the interval, the Belgians increased the pressure. A free kick from Kevin De Bruyne struck the left post in the 53rd minute, heralding a phase in which the "Red Devils" came closer to finding the equalizer. Rudi Garcia responded, introducing fresh legs in the 56th minute with De Cuyper and Raskin. The decisive tactical move followed ten minutes later: the Napoli forward Romelu Lukaku was brought on and, just 22 seconds later, played a key role in the equalizer. After a low cross from Thomas Meunier, Lukaku used his body robustly and effectively forced Egyptian defender Mohammed Hani into an own goal (66.).

In the closing stages, the match opened up with chances at both ends. Meunier's shot lacked placement (73.), and an effort from Lukaku was blocked (78.). At the other end, Courtois had to intervene on a flailing cross, tipping the ball over the bar (84.). Schubair also distinguished himself with a well-placed header from Brandon Mechele (83.). In the 87th minute, Lukaku rose unmarked for a header from a corner but sent it over the bar. The 67,000 fans in Seattle ultimately saw a fair point's share between two favorites to top the group.

Outlook on the Remaining Group Matches

Meanwhile, discussions have begun in Belgium about the role of the veteran players. Kevin De Bruyne and Lukaku, who featured against Egypt from the 66th minute onward, find themselves at the center of a generation still looking to live up to the successes of the past. Jeremy Doku, whom Xaver Schlager once described as having "a moped under his feet," also delivered an energetic performance, even if his efficiency in front of goal left room for improvement. Mohammed Salah not only celebrated his 34th birthday on matchday but also provided a textbook assist for the opening goal.

The group table remains wide open after the opening round. The Belgians face Iran and New Zealand in their upcoming group matches, while Egypt will take on Iran on June 22 in Los Angeles and New Zealand on June 26 in Vancouver. Both teams therefore still have every chance of advancing to the knockout stage, although the Belgians will ultimately need to improve their finishing if they are to progress.