A dramatic second-half cameo from Romelu Lukaku saved tournament favourites Belgium from a stunning opening-day defeat, securing a hard-fought 1–1 draw against a disciplined Egypt side at Seattle Stadium on Monday, June 15, 2026.
The African underdogs were on the verge of claiming their first-ever World Cup victory before Belgium’s record goalscorer entered the fray. Coming off the bench in the 66th minute following a hamstring injury layoff, Lukaku forced an equaliser just 23 seconds into his introduction when his immediate physical presence in the box pressured Egyptian defender Mohamed Hany into turning a dangerous Thomas Meunier cross into his own net.
Egypt had earlier taken a deserved lead in the 19th minute through midfielder Emam Ashour. Celebrating his 34th birthday, global superstar Mohamed Salah teed up Ashour, who deftly carved space before unleashing a powerful strike past a diving Thibaut Courtois to log his first international goal.
Belgium dictated possession but severely lacked attacking fluidity against Egypt’s compact defensive block, with a Kevin De Bruyne free kick striking the post in the 53rd minute highlighting their deep frustration.