SEATTLE, Jun 16 (V7N) – A highly anticipated Group G clash between Belgium and Egypt ended in a hard-fought 1-1 draw at Seattle Stadium on Tuesday, as two of football's biggest stars, Kevin De Bruyne and Mohamed Salah, led their teams in an entertaining World Cup encounter.

The packed stadium witnessed a dramatic contest in which Egypt came within touching distance of a famous victory before an unfortunate own goal denied the African side all three points.

Egypt, known as "The Pharaohs," made history by taking a first-half lead in a World Cup match for the first time. Driven by the creativity of captain Mohamed Salah, the North African side started brightly and looked dangerous from the opening whistle.

Their breakthrough came in the 19th minute when midfielder Imam Ashour produced a moment of brilliance. Receiving a pass from Salah just outside the penalty area, Ashour unleashed a powerful long-range strike that flew past the Belgian goalkeeper and into the net.

The goal, Ashour's first in international football, sparked celebrations among Egyptian supporters and gave the Pharaohs a deserved 1-0 advantage heading into halftime.

Belgium responded strongly after the break as Kevin De Bruyne and his teammates increased the pressure in search of an equalizer. The Red Devils nearly found the breakthrough in the 53rd minute when De Bruyne's superb free-kick beat the wall but crashed against the Egyptian post.

With time running out, Belgium head coach turned to experienced striker Romelu Lukaku, introducing him from the bench in an attempt to change the game.

The substitution paid off almost immediately.

In the 66th minute, Belgium launched a quick attacking move with Lukaku positioned dangerously inside the box. As Egypt defender Mohamed Hany rushed to intercept, the ball deflected off his foot and into his own net, handing Belgium a fortunate equalizer.

The own goal, the third of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, left Egyptian players devastated after their determined defensive effort.

Both sides pushed for a winning goal during the closing stages, with Salah and De Bruyne leading attacks for their respective teams. However, neither team could find a breakthrough before the final whistle.

The result leaves Belgium and Egypt with one point each after their opening Group G fixture, keeping qualification hopes alive for both sides as the tournament progresses.

END/SMA/AJ