FIFA WC: Belgium coach expresses disappointment after draw; Egypt manager feels "win was in their hands"
Seattle, June 16
Belgium coach Rudi Garcia admitted his team underperformed in the first half against Egypt, saying they lacked cohesion and should have played better collectively.
Egypt were denied their first-ever FIFA World Cup win despite a quick strike from Emam Ashour as Romelu Lukaku forced an own goal equaliser within the first minute of coming on the pitch, with Belgium playing a 1-1 draw at Seattle on Tuesday.
"We should have been better as a team in the first half," Garcia said as per Reuters.
Belgium drew level in the 66th minute when Egypt defender Mohamed Hany turned a cross into his own net under pressure from substitute forward Romelu Lukaku, who had only just entered the game.
"I'm happy for him, and when you're an opponent, and you see Lukaku coming onto the pitch, you're probably quaking in your boots and your level of concern is probably on the rise," Garcia added.
While Egypt coach Hossam Hassan expressed his disappointment, saying his team came to compete rather than merely participate, as they failed to secure a victory despite having the match under their control.
"We are definitely not here just to make up the numbers. The win was in our hands today," he said.
Egypt, led by iconic Mohamed Salah, is featuring only in its fourth FIFA World Cup and awaits a full quota of points even after playing eight matches in total.
The clash was also a battle between Belgium's Kevin de Bruyne and Salah, former Premier League rivals in Manchester City and Liverpool colours, respectively.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Classic Belgium – slow start, then rely on individual brilliance. De Bruyne was invisible for large parts. Garcia needs to sort out the midfield cohesion or they'll crash out early.
As an Indian football fan, seeing African teams like Egypt finally get respect is heartwarming. They played with real passion. Salah may not have scored but his presence changed the game. 🔥
Honestly, Belgium's golden generation is fading. They should have dominated Egypt easily. The own goal was unfortunate for Egypt; they deserved the win. Reminds me of India's near-misses in cricket – so close yet so far!
Egypt coach Hossam Hassan is absolutely right – they came to win, not just fill the numbers. We need more underdogs taking that attitude. India can learn from this fighting spirit! ✊
Lukaku is a game-changer, no doubt. But Egypt's defense was solid until that moment. They'll learn from this. In other news, de Bruyne vs Salah was a treat for Premier League fans in India like me!
Respect to Egypt for not parking the bus. They went for it and nearly got the historic win. Belgium's coach criticism is fair – first half was lethargic
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