Belgium and Egypt played out a dramatic 1-1 draw at Lumen Field, with an own goal by Hany canceling out Ashour's first-half strike in a World Cup clash neither side could break.
The Belgian side came into this World Cup encounter looking to make an early statement. Egypt arrived with hopes of pulling off a surprise result against a traditionally stronger opponent. Both teams needed a positive start in their group campaign.
Egypt struck first and caught Belgium off guard. In the 19th minute, Emam Ashour fired past the Belgian defense to give the visitors an early lead. The goal came from a well-worked move that exposed gaps in Belgium's early setup.
Ashour's clinical finish put Egypt in the driver's seat. Belgium responded by increasing their possession and pressing higher up the pitch. The home team controlled more of the ball but struggled to create clear chances early on.
Belgium's pressure continued throughout the first half. They completed 371 of 432 passes with 86% accuracy, dominating possession at 53%. Despite their control, they managed only three shots on target before the break.
Egypt defended resolutely and looked dangerous on the counter-attack. The visitors earned seven corner kicks in the first 45 minutes. Their defensive shape remained solid despite Belgium's territorial advantage.
The second half brought a turning point. In the 66th minute, a defensive mistake proved costly when Mohanad Hany turned the ball into his own net. The own goal leveled the match and gave Belgium momentum at a crucial moment.
Belgium pushed for a winner after the equalizer. Timothy Castagne impressed defensively with four tackles in 56 minutes before his substitution. Youri Tielemans controlled the midfield and created two key passes throughout the match.
Egypt refused to surrender despite conceding the own goal. Mohanad Lasheen made eight tackles to anchor their defense. The North African side remained organized and prevented Belgium from finding a breakthrough.
Both teams created limited clear-cut opportunities in the final stages. Belgium generated an expected goals total of 1.16, while Egypt's xG stood at 0.89. Neither side could find the decisive moment needed to claim three points.
The match ended level after 90 minutes of intense competition. Belgium finished with 14 total shots, while Egypt managed the same number. Goalkeeper saves proved crucial, with Egypt's keeper making three saves to Belgium's two.
This draw leaves both teams with work to do in their World Cup campaign. Belgium will reflect on missed chances despite their possession dominance. Egypt can take heart from a solid defensive display against quality opposition.
