World Cup 2026: Emam Ashour wonder goal not enough as Egypt draw 1-1 with Belgium in Group G opener

Egypt were denied a famous victory in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a cruel own goal from Mohamed Hany earned Belgium a 1-1 draw in a hard-fought Group G encounter on Monday night.

The Pharaohs looked set to claim a historic first World Cup win thanks to a stunning first-half strike from Emam Ashour, but their lead was cancelled out in the second half at Lumen Field Stadium.

Ashour Produces Moment of Magic

Belgium threatened early when Charles De Ketelaere slipped through the Egyptian defence in the 10th minute before finding Leandro Trossard, but the winger was quickly dispossessed and the danger was cleared.

Egypt gradually settled into the contest and began creating opportunities of their own. Ahmed Fatouh attempted to pick out Omar Marmoush with a long cross in the 15th minute, although Thibaut Courtois was alert enough to collect.

The breakthrough arrived four minutes later through a moment of brilliance from Emam Ashour. Mohamed Salah provided the assist with a clever pass into the midfielder’s path, and Ashour did the rest, controlling the ball before unleashing a thunderous strike from the edge of the box that flew into the bottom left corner to give Egypt a deserved lead.

Courtois Keeps Belgium in the Contest

Egypt continued to threaten and nearly doubled their advantage in the 33rd minute. Mostafa Ziko found space outside the area and drove a powerful effort towards goal, forcing Courtois into an excellent two-handed save.

The Pharaohs resumed brightly after the interval and came close again in the 48th minute. Ziko’s effort inside the penalty area was blocked before Omar Marmoush reacted first to the rebound, only to see his shot blocked as Belgium survived a major scare.

Belgium Respond Through De Bruyne

Belgium nearly found an immediate response in the 53rd minute when Kevin De Bruyne stepped up to take a free kick. The Manchester City playmaker struck a superb effort that beat the goalkeeper but crashed against the left post.

Two minutes later, Egypt missed a golden opportunity to put the game beyond reach. Mohamed Salah rose highest to meet a cross and directed a header towards goal, but Courtois produced another vital save. The rebound fell kindly to Ashour, but the goalscorer sent his effort wide of the target.

Hany’s Own Goal Changes the Game

Belgium’s persistence finally paid off in the 66th minute, although fortune played a significant role.

A dangerous ball into the Egyptian penalty area ended with Mohamed Hany inadvertently turning it into his own net, leaving goalkeeper Oufa Shobeir helpless and bringing Belgium level at 1-1.

Egypt Left to Reflect

The final whistle confirmed a share of the spoils, with Egypt earning a valuable point but left wondering what might have been.

Ashour’s spectacular strike and a disciplined team performance appeared set to deliver a memorable victory, but Hany’s unfortunate own goal ensured Belgium escaped with a draw. Despite the disappointment, Egypt can take encouragement from a performance that showed they are capable of competing with one of Europe’s strongest sides as the tournament progresses.

The Pharaohs will next face New Zealand on June 22.