June 16, (THEWILL) — Egypt produced one of their most memorable FIFA World Cup performances on Monday, holding Belgium to a 1-1 draw in their opening Group G fixture at Lumen Field in Seattle.
The Pharaohs looked on course for a famous victory after Emam Ashour fired them ahead in the 19th minute with a stunning strike from outside the penalty area.
The goal, Ashour’s first for the Egyptian national team, capped an impressive first-half display from the North Africans.
Coming into the match, Egypt had never won a FIFA World Cup game and had only spent 29 minutes leading in World Cup history. Ashour’s breakthrough therefore represented a significant moment for a side seeking to rewrite its tournament record.
Belgium responded strongly after the interval and came close to drawing level in the 53rd minute when captain Kevin De Bruyne curled a free-kick beyond goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir, only for the effort to crash against the post.
The Red Devils eventually found an equaliser in the 66th minute, just moments after Romelu Lukaku entered the contest.
Thomas Meunier surged down the right flank and whipped a dangerous cross into the area, with Egyptian defender Mohamed Hany inadvertently turning the ball into his own net under pressure.
Despite Belgium’s increased urgency, neither side could find a winner in an entertaining encounter that ended with honours even.
The result leaves Group G finely poised ahead of the second round of fixtures. Belgium will travel to Los Angeles to face Iran, while Egypt head to Vancouver where they will meet New Zealand.
For Egypt, however, the draw will feel like another step forward, with the Pharaohs showing they can compete against one of world football’s established powers on the biggest stage.
Olumide Atiba
