In their opening match of Group G at the World Cup, Belgium were held to a 1-1 draw by Egypt, a result that came after five minutes of added time. Having been under pressure for much of the game, the Belgians trailed after E. Ashour opened the scoring for Egypt in the 20th minute.
The first half went in Egypt's favor. Sharper and more clinical in crucial situations, the Egyptian team punished a lackluster Belgian side, unable to impose their rhythm before the break. Ashour's goal rewarded this period of dominance and put the Red Devils in an uncomfortable position for the remainder of the match.
A game transformed after the break
The match changed dramatically in the second half. After a tight and disappointing first half for Belgium, the game opened up. Egypt had several opportunities to extend their lead and create a more comfortable advantage, but failed to capitalize. This lack of clinical finishing kept Belgium in the game.
The Belgians finally equalized in the 66th minute thanks to an own goal by Mr. Hany. This equalizer completely reignited the game. From then on, the match became much more lively, with a second half significantly more intense and spectacular than the first.
Belgium pushes forward, Mechele misses the final blow
In stoppage time, Belgium tried to snatch victory. In the 93rd minute, the Red Devils won a free kick out wide. Tielemans whipped it in, cutting inside the box. Mechele intercepted the ball, but his effort missed the target. It was Belgium's best chance of the match.
Despite a lively finish, Belgium couldn't turn the game around. Egypt, meanwhile, will rue their missed opportunities to seal the victory.
After this draw, both teams have 1 point. Iran and New Zealand, the other two teams in the group, face off at 3 a.m. French time.
