FIFA 2026: Belgium, Egypt Share Spoils In Opening Match Clash

 

Belgium and Egypt squared off 1-1 in their Group G opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Nohamed Hany scoring an own goal that led Belgium through in Seattle, United States of America.  

In the previous edition of the World Cup in Qatar, both Belgium and Egypt won their opening matches. They lived up to expectations, not losing as the Belgians came from behind to cancel out the Egyptians' lead with Emam Ashour Hany's brilliant finish. 

The right-back was left unmarked as Egypt advanced into a dangerous area on the right flank. Mohamed Salah released a cross-pitch pass to Ashour as Meunier drifted away and drilled a right-footed shot into the right corner in the 20th minute.  

Belgium regained level terms within minutes when Romelu Lukaku stepped onto the pitch, replacing Charles De Ketelaere. Meunier barrelled down the right wing, crossing the ball into the six-yard. Onrushing Lukaku was challenged by Mohamed Hany. Instead of deflecting the ball away from the striker, he side-footed the ball into the right corner. 

The match ended in a 1-1 draw, denying Egypt a back-to-back victory against Belgium in the FIFA World Cup. The Egyptians won their previous meeting in Qatar by 2-1. Belgium will now take on Iran in the next match, while Egypt will face New Zealand. 

Overview 

The combination of Mo Salah and Marmoush was terrifying for the Belgians' defense. Salah was able to open the centre with his passes for Marmoush to launch counters, while the Belgians were way upfield in search of the equaliser. The gamble with Lukaku paid off for the Belgian side, producing the presence that led to the own goal from 

Jeremy Doku was a standout for Belgium before the equaliser. He was closely watched by the opponents before Lukaku's presence mounted more pressure in the box. Belgium regained control of the midfield subsequently and 

Chances and Defense 

Kevin De Bruyne had Belgium's best chance to level the scores from inside the centre of the box, receiving a pass from Meunier. The attacking midfielder aimed the shot straight at the goalkeeper. It was an easy catch for Shobeir.

Egypt's chance to double the double shortly after halftime was impeded by Nathan Ngoy. Salah set off the counter, and Marmoush cut through the midfield effectively, but Ngoy caught up with him inside the box.