By Amaechi Agbo
Belgium came from behind to earn a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Egypt in a thrilling Group G opener at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday.
Substitute Romelu Lukaku made an immediate impact, forcing an own goal just 23 seconds after coming off the bench to rescue a point for the Red Devils before a packed crowd at Seattle Stadium.
The much-anticipated clash featured a reunion between Belgium captain Kevin De Bruyne and Egypt talisman Mohamed Salah, who marked his 34th birthday with a memorable performance.
Egypt struck first in the 19th minute when Salah split the Belgian defence with a precise pass to Emam Ashour, who unleashed a powerful effort from outside the box beyond goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among Egyptian supporters and saw Salah make history. According to OptaJoe, the Liverpool forward became the first African player since 1966 to register a World Cup goal contribution on his birthday.
Despite fielding an attack led by Jérémy Doku and Leandro Trossard, Belgium struggled to break down Egypt’s disciplined defensive setup. The Pharaohs restricted the Europeans to no shots on target in the first half, with De Bruyne coming closest when his trademark curling free-kick crashed against the crossbar.
Egypt remained dangerous on the counterattack and nearly doubled their lead, but Courtois produced a fine diving save to deny Mostafa Ziko.
Seeking a breakthrough, Belgium coach Domenico Tedesco introduced Lukaku in the 66th minute. The decision paid off almost instantly.
Just moments after entering the game, the Napoli striker attacked a low cross from Thomas Meunier, forcing Egypt defender Mohamed Hany to turn the ball into his own net under pressure.
Both sides pushed for a winner in a frantic closing spell. Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir produced a stunning reflex save to preserve parity, while Salah received a standing ovation when he was substituted in the 75th minute.
The result leaves Group G finely balanced ahead of the remaining group fixtures, with both teams taking a point from an entertaining and fiercely contested encounter.
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