Romelu Lukaku needed just 23 seconds to make his presence felt. The veteran striker’s introduction midway through the second half sparked an immediate turnaround for Belgium, helping the Red Devils secure a 1-1 draw against Egypt in their opening Group G match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday.
Belgium appeared headed for a disappointing defeat after falling behind in the first half, but Lukaku’s arrival in the 66th minute changed the complexion of the match almost instantly. Charging through the middle of the Egyptian defense, the Belgian forward created chaos in the penalty area as he attempted to meet a cross from the right flank. Egypt defender Mohamed Hany, under pressure from the powerful striker, inadvertently turned the ball into his own net to level the score.
The equalizer came a mere 23 seconds after Lukaku stepped onto the field, providing Belgium with a lifeline and highlighting the influence of one of the nation’s most prolific goalscorers.
Before Lukaku’s dramatic entrance, Egypt had been the better side for long stretches and looked on course for a historic victory.
Midfielder Emam Ashour put the Pharaohs ahead in the 19th minute with the first international goal of his career. Making his 30th appearance for Egypt, Ashour capitalized on a defensive breakdown in the Belgian back line, calmly finishing to give his side a deserved lead.
The goal marked only the second time Egypt had held a lead in a World Cup match, a rare moment for a nation making its fourth appearance on football’s biggest stage. The North African side, however, was unable to convert several additional opportunities that could have put the game beyond Belgium’s reach.
Despite controlling much of the first half and creating numerous scoring chances, Egypt failed to find a second goal. That missed opportunity ultimately proved costly against a Belgian squad packed with attacking talent.
Belgium, seeking to reestablish itself among the world’s elite after a disappointing group-stage exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, struggled to find rhythm early. The Red Devils were often frustrated by Egypt’s organized defense and energetic midfield, which consistently disrupted the flow of Belgium’s attack.
After falling behind, Belgium gradually increased the pressure and found renewed energy following Lukaku’s introduction. The striker and captain Kevin De Bruyne both had chances to find a winner in the closing stages, but Egypt goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy and the Egyptian defense stood firm.
Egypt also threatened on the counterattack late in the match and came close to reclaiming the lead, but neither side could find a decisive breakthrough.
The draw extends Belgium’s winless run in World Cup play to three matches, dating back to the 2022 tournament. For Egypt, the result represents a valuable point against one of Europe’s traditional powers, though the Pharaohs remain in search of their first-ever World Cup victory.
While Belgium will be encouraged by Lukaku’s game-changing cameo, questions remain about a defense that looked vulnerable throughout much of the contest. Egypt, meanwhile, can take confidence from a performance that demonstrated they are capable of competing with the world’s top teams.
In the end, both nations settled for a point apiece in a hard-fought Group G encounter that showcased Egypt’s resilience and Belgium’s ability to respond when adversity struck. With the group stage just underway, the result leaves everything to play for as both teams continue their quest for a place in the knockout rounds.
