For a significant portion of Egypt’s opening match against Belgium, it appeared the Pharaohs were on track for a historic World Cup victory. However, the dynamics shifted when Rudi Garcia introduced a player known for his pivotal contributions in tense moments.
“Frankly, when you are the opponent and you see Romelu Lukaku entering the field, your confidence goes down and your anxiety increases,” Garcia remarked following the match that ended in a draw. While Lukaku did not score, his presence drew the attention of two defenders on his initial run into the box, leading to an equalizing own goal that salvaged a point for Belgium in a tightly contested match.
Group G intensified as expected frontrunners Belgium and Egypt commenced their World Cup journeys with a hard-fought draw. A crowd of 66,775 spectators gathered under the scorching sun of early North American summer, a setting that warranted the controversial cooling breaks implemented for this tournament.
The anticipated clash was scheduled for noon under a heat advisory in Seattle, with temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) and hazy clouds enveloping the stadium at kick-off. The stands were filled to capacity, creating a vibrant sea of red and white, reflecting the teams’ similar color schemes.
Both teams tested referee Ramon Abatti’s patience with a vigorous display of physicality, exchanging early yellow cards. In the 19th minute, Egypt broke the deadlock. A swift restart caught Belgium off guard as they struggled to regain their defensive shape. Following some clever buildup on the right side, Mohamed Salah received the ball, turned, and assessed his options.
Celebrating his 34th birthday, Salah delivered a precise pass to Emam Ashour, who advanced toward the edge of the penalty area. The midfielder unleashed a shot that went beneath Thomas Meunier’s outstretched leg and beyond a diving Thibaut Courtois, who had committed too far to his left. This marked a significant achievement for Ashour, as it was his first international goal in his 30th appearance.
The Seattle Stadium reverberated with excitement during the exuberant celebration, characteristic of the venue’s atmosphere during both soccer matches and major events like Taylor Swift concerts.
Belgium struggled to utilize the width of the pitch for much of the first half. Egypt effectively closed down Jérémy Doku, frequently doubling up on the winger whenever he received the ball. On the opposite side, Leandro Trossard often appeared indecisive in possession, losing the ball three times within the initial half-hour.
Following Ashour’s goal, Doku shifted to the right flank, where Egypt’s defensive presence was lighter. As first-half stoppage time approached, desperation grew among Belgian players, leading to a series of erratic passes and attempts. Kevin De Bruyne’s long-range shot failed to reach the box, instead striking his teammate Charles De Ketelaere.
Doku attempted a volley but sent it soaring well over the crossbar. Egypt nearly added a second goal just before the break, but a corner kick drifted over the crowd and harmlessly into open space.
While Belgium resorted to speculative attempts, Egypt displayed a more ambitious approach rather than merely defending. The Pharaohs countered when opportunities arose but were also content to maintain possession in midfield, with their defense firmly positioned behind.
Finally, in the 66th minute, Garcia entrusted Lukaku with altering the course of the match. This decision proved astute, as a rapid advance by Meunier into the box set up a close-range cross that found Lukaku sliding in between two defenders near goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir.
The ball eluded Lukaku’s foot but inadvertently struck Mohamed Hany’s boot and rolled into Egypt’s net, equalizing the match just before the second-half hydration break.
Despite only having played 40 minutes in Serie A for Napoli this season, raising concerns about his readiness for the World Cup, Lukaku’s role as a substitute may now be more suitable for the seasoned striker.
“We’re going far [this summer] with Romelu, so we have to go easy on him,” Garcia noted. “The goal is to get as far as possible in this World Cup with a Romelu who doesn’t get hurt. I think that’s the first objective. And then if he plays this role of super sub and that every time he hits a goal, frankly, it’s going to be great.”
