Belgium 1-1 Egypt: Five key takeaways from FIFA World Cup 2026 clash

Neither of these sides backed down till the end.

For the first game of Group G, the Belgium national football team met the Egypt national football team at the Seattle Stadium. It was an intense game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Rudi Garcia-led side were being considered as one of the top nations on the world stage. Their performance against the Pharaohs was not an example of what they can offer. They looked weak on multiple occasions and this can become a problem for them going forward in the mega competition.

Egyptian national football team did impress with their performance. They also need some changes in their tactics so that they can progress to the further stages of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Hossam Hassan’s men are capable of much more than what they came up with.

Also Read: Spain 0-0 Cape Verde: Five key takeaways from exciting draw in FIFA World Cup 2026

Five important things we learned:

1. Belgium’s attack lacks quality

The Belgian Red Devils got multiple opportunities to fire the ball at the back of the net and they failed to do so. They started with Charles De Ketelaere, Jeremy Doku and Leandro Trossard in the attack. The wingers were looking to provide from both flanks, but the striker lacked finishing touches and this can be a concern for them.

2. Egypt quick in transition

The Pharaohs displayed one of their best performances in the FIFA World Cup. Even though it ended in a 1-1 draw for them, they became a constant threat to Belgium when it came to counter-attacking. They were fast during the break, but somewhat lacked finishing touches. Mohamed Salah must step up here.

3. Emam Ashour not just a midfielder

The 28-year-old was the sole goal scorer for the Egypt national football team against the Belgian Red Devils. His goal eventually helped the Pharaohs secure a draw. His efforts both in the midfield and the attacking front were exceptional. He scored the first-ever goal for his nation, that too came in the FIFA World Cup.

4. Romelu Lukaku with immediate impact

Romelu Lukaku was subbed in during the 65th minute and just within 60 seconds, Belgium were back in the game. He looked like a complete threat in the final third despite barely playing any club football this season due to injury. Even though the equaliser was marked as an own goal, Lukaku made Egypt’s defence uncomfortable after coming in from the bench.

5. Strong display in the backline by Egypt

The Hossam Hassan-led side did well during the transition, but their defence can be a big factor of their survival in the FIFA World Cup this year. Ahmed Fatouh and Yasser Ibrahim put in a good performance. Mohamed Hany scored an own goal, but his work rate as a right-back was quite impressive. Belgium stars like Jeremy Doku and Leandro Trossard were unable to get past.

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