Belgium came from behind to rescue a 1-1 draw against Egypt in an entertaining Group G encounter at Seattle’s CenturyLink Field on Monday night, denying the Pharaohs what would have been their first-ever World Cup victory.
Egypt looked set to make history after a spirited display and an inspired performance from Emam Ashour, whose stunning first-half strike gave the African side a deserved lead.
Playing in challenging conditions, Egypt made the breakthrough in the 19th minute when Ashour unleashed a superb effort from distance after being set up by captain Mohamed Salah. The goal handed Egypt their first-ever halftime lead at a FIFA World Cup and raised hopes of ending a wait stretching back more than nine decades for a maiden tournament victory.
Salah’s contribution also saw the forward mark his 34th birthday in style, becoming the first African player on record since 1966 to register a World Cup goal involvement on his birthday.
Belgium struggled to create clear opportunities for much of the contest despite the presence of experienced stars including Kevin De Bruyne. The midfielder came closest in the second half when his free-kick struck the post as the European side searched for a way back.
The turning point arrived in the 66th minute with the introduction of Romelu Lukaku. Just seconds after stepping onto the pitch, Belgium’s all-time leading scorer made an immediate impact as his movement inside the area forced an own goal from Egypt defender Mohamed Hany following a delivery from Thomas Meunier.
The equaliser arrived only 22 seconds after Lukaku’s introduction and shifted momentum firmly in Belgium’s favour.
Belgium nearly completed the comeback late on, but Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shobier produced an excellent save to deny Brandon Mechele, while Lukaku also missed a headed opportunity.
The match also delivered a captivating contest between veterans Mohamed Salah and Kevin De Bruyne, with both influential in key moments.
Although Egypt were unable to hold onto their lead, the performance offered encouragement ahead of their remaining Group G fixtures, while Belgium escaped with a point after a difficult opening test.
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