SEATTLE — Emam Ashour announced himself on the World Cup stage with a breakthrough goal as Egypt earned a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Belgium in its opening Group G match on Monday.
The midfielder gave the Pharaohs a deserved lead in the 19th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to score his first international goal and put Egypt ahead against one of Europe’s traditional powers.
Ashour’s strike marked only the second time Egypt has led a World Cup match and appeared to put the Africans on course for a famous victory.
Egypt created several opportunities to extend its advantage but was unable to find the decisive second goal, leaving the door open for Belgium’s experienced stars.
The turning point arrived in the 66th minute when Romelu Lukaku entered the match as a substitute. Just 23 seconds later, the striker’s presence in the penalty area forced Egypt defender Mohamed Hany into an unfortunate own goal while attempting to intercept a dangerous cross.
Belgium pushed for a winner through Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne, but Egypt held firm to secure a valuable point against the Red Devils.
The result extends Egypt’s wait for a first-ever World Cup victory, but the performance will provide encouragement for a side seeking to advance beyond the group stage for the first time in its history.
For Belgium, the draw continues a disappointing World Cup run after the Red Devils failed to progress beyond the group stage in Qatar four years ago.
Egypt and Belgium each leave Seattle with a point in what is shaping up to be a tightly contested Group G battle.
Source: Saudi Gazette