Belgium and Egypt played to a 1-1 draw on Monday in their opening Group G match of the 2026 World Cup at Lumen Field in Seattle, with Romelu Lukaku’s second-half substitution proving pivotal in salvaging a point for the favored European side.

Egypt took an early lead in the 19th minute through midfielder Emam Ashour, who scored his first international goal by capitalizing on a defensive lapse. This goal marked only Egypt’s second time leading in a World Cup match, as the North African team, participating in their fourth World Cup, is still seeking its first victory in the tournament. Egypt was the more assertive side during the first half, creating multiple chances and maintaining pressure on the Belgian defense.

Belgium, known as the Red Devils, dominated possession but struggled to convert opportunities. Midfielder Kevin De Bruyne came close to scoring on several occasions, including a shot that hit the post and another that went wide. Belgium, having failed to advance past the group stage in the 2022 World Cup, faced growing tension as they searched for an equalizer.

The turning point arrived in the 66th minute when Romelu Lukaku entered the match as a substitute. The Napoli striker, who leads Belgium in all-time goals and had opted out of the team's spring friendlies to recover from a hamstring injury, immediately influenced play. Within 23 seconds of his entrance, Lukaku initiated a swift attack down the center of the pitch and attempted to tap in a cross from the right. However, Egypt defender Mohamed Hany reached the ball first and inadvertently scored an own goal, leveling the score at 1-1.

Lukaku’s involvement drew applause from the Belgian supporters present, and captain Youri Tielemans acknowledged the striker’s importance despite his need to rebuild fitness following injury. Lukaku also had a late chance to put Belgium ahead, but his header missed the target.

Egypt’s coach, Hossam Hassan, expressed the view that his team had been closer to securing a victory, emphasizing the competitive nature of the match. The draw leaves both teams with a point, and Belgium will look to improve their fortunes as they remain favorites to advance from the group, while Egypt aims to build on this performance in pursuit of their first World Cup win.