Egypt came agonizingly close to securing their first-ever FIFA World Cup victory before a second-half own goal handed Belgium a 1-1 draw in their Group G opener at Seattle Stadium on Monday.
Backed by a passionate crowd of 66,775 supporters, the Pharaohs looked set to make history after Al Ahly midfielder Emam Ashour fired them into the lead in the first half. Ashour unleashed a powerful 20-yard strike in the 19th minute that beat Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and gave Egypt a deserved advantage.
Mohamed Salah, who provided the assist for the opening goal, played a key role throughout the match as Egypt searched for a breakthrough result in their eighth World Cup appearance. The seven-time African champions entered the tournament still seeking their first win on football’s biggest stage since making their debut in 1934.
Egypt nearly doubled their lead before halftime when Mostafa Zico’s low effort was brilliantly pushed behind by Courtois. After the break, Salah also came close to extending the advantage, but his header was well saved by the Belgian goalkeeper.
Belgium gradually increased the pressure as the second half progressed. Kevin De Bruyne came close to leveling the score when his free-kick struck the outside of the post, while coach Rudi Garcia introduced Romelu Lukaku in a bid to spark the attack.
The substitution paid immediate dividends. Moments after Lukaku entered the game in the 66th minute, Thomas Meunier delivered a dangerous low cross into the penalty area. Under pressure from the Belgian striker, Egypt defender Mohamed Hany inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, bringing Belgium level at 1-1.
Despite late Belgian pressure, Egypt held firm to secure a valuable point. However, the result extended their wait for a first World Cup victory to 92 years, leaving them still searching for a landmark win in the competition.
The draw leaves both teams with one point in Group G and sets up a crucial second round of fixtures as they continue their quest to reach the knockout stage.