The Group G highlight match took place at Lumen field before 66,775 spectators under intense early-summer heat in North America, with pitch temperatures at times reaching 30 degrees C. According to BBC commentator Steve Bower, the two days before the match were the hottest in Seattle in the past 30 years. Stadium organizers even watered the pitch to cool the grass during cooling breaks.

Despite the challenging weather, the intensity on the field did not diminish. Both teams started at a high pace, fiercely competing and not shying away from physical contact. After more than 20 minutes of contention, Egypt unexpectedly made a difference with a moment of individual brilliance.

Emam Ashour scores the opening goal in Egypt's draw with Belgium in their Group G opener at World Cup 2026 at Lumen field, Seattle, US on 15/6. *Photo: AP*

From a quick build-up on the right wing, Mohamed Salah received the ball and passed it across to Emam Ashour just outside the box. The Al Ahly midfielder controlled it once before unleashing a powerful shot into the far corner, leaving Thibaut Courtois with no chance. This was Ashour's first goal for the national team after 30 appearances. Meanwhile, Salah became the first African player to contribute to a goal on his birthday since World Cup 1966.

The opening goal energized the African side. Egypt played confidently, organized a tight defense, and made it difficult for Belgium to build up play. Jeremy Doku was almost neutralized by the opponent's tenacious marking, while Leandro Trossard repeatedly made errors on the opposite flank.

Despite superior possession after falling behind, Belgium remained unable to breach Egypt's defense. Efforts from Kevin De Bruyne and Doku failed to yield an equalizer in the first half. Egypt even nearly doubled their lead from a corner kick late in the half.

Kevin De Bruyne's free-kick hits the post. *Photo: Reuters*

After the break, Belgium's pressure intensified. In the 53rd minute, De Bruyne took a free-kick from about 21 meters, striking the post to the dismay of European fans. The former Manchester City star's World Cup goal drought continued, lasting since his long-range stunner against Brazil in the 2018 quarterfinals.

Not to be outdone, Egypt responded with a sharp counter-attack. Salah's header forced Courtois into a diving save, but Ashour missed a chance to complete his brace, shooting wide of the post from a favorable position.

As the game seemed headed for a stalemate, coach Rudi Garcia decided to bring Lukaku on in the 66th minute. The substitution immediately paid off.

Less than 20 seconds after his introduction, Lukaku made a run across the Egyptian defense from a cross by Thomas Meunier. Though he didn't touch the ball, the pressure generated by the 33-year-old forward forced defender Mohamed Hany to score an own goal. The 1-1 equalizer came as a cold shower for Egypt, just as they were on the verge of a historic victory.

Romelu Lukaku's pressure leads to Mohamed Hany's own goal. *Photo: Reuters*

The final minutes were dramatic, with chances appearing at both ends. Salah left the field in the 75th minute without scoring on his 34th birthday. Goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir made an impressive save from Brandon Mechele's header, while Courtois also had to show his skill after a long-range lob from Ahmed Fatouh.

The 1-1 score remained until the end, meaning Egypt's 92-year wait for a first World Cup win continued. In their next match on 21/6, Salah and his teammates have a good opportunity to break the jinx when they face New Zealand, while Belgium plays Iran.

Hong Duy