Belgium back in the game after Egypt’s dream start

Belgium fought back to level their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G opener against Egypt at Lumen Field in Seattle after an own goal from defender Mohamed Hany cancelled out Emam Ashour’s first-half opener.

The European side drew level in the 66th minute when Hany, attempting to deal with pressure from substitute Romelu Lukaku inside the penalty area, inadvertently turned the ball into his own net to make it 1–1.

Egypt had taken a surprise lead in the 19th minute through Emam Ashour, whose superb long-range strike marked his first international goal and gave the Pharaohs a dream start. The goal also helped Egypt achieve a historic milestone, becoming the first Egyptian team to lead at half-time in a World Cup match.

Despite trailing at the break, Belgium dominated possession and gradually increased the pressure after the restart. Kevin De Bruyne came agonisingly close to equalising in the 53rd minute when his free-kick struck the woodwork and bounced away.

Belgium's attacking intensity grew further following the introduction of Romelu Lukaku, whose presence immediately troubled the Egyptian defence. The pressure eventually told as Hany's unfortunate own goal restored parity midway through the second half.

After a disciplined first-half display that had frustrated Belgium's star-studded attack, Egypt found themselves increasingly pinned back as the match progressed. Belgium, meanwhile, continued to push forward in search of a winner after finally breaking through.

With the score locked at 1–1, the contest remained finely poised heading into the closing stages, as both sides chased a potentially crucial victory in their opening World Cup fixture.