FIFA WC: Belgium plays 1-1 draw against Egypt as Lukaku forces own goal error from Hany
Seattle, June 16
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.
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.
In the 19th minute, Salah, celebrating his 34th birthday, earned a World Cup goal involvement as after finding some space, he fed Ashour with a low pass, who came from the left flank and wasted no time in firing a low finish past Belgium goalie Thibaut Courtois.
Salah also became the first African player on record (since 1966) to secure a goal involvement in a World Cup match on their birthday.
The scoreline was undisturbed heading into the first half, with Belgium having superior ball possession of 58 per cent, seven shots and 14 touches in the opposition's box, as compared to Egypt's 42 per cent ball possession, just four shots and touches in the opposition's box.
Soon after the break, Zico and Omar Marmoush were denied their chances at doubling their side's lead against defenders Timothy Castagne and Brandon Mechele. In the 53rd minute, a De Bruyne strike hit the post, denying Belgium a chance to level the scores.
De Bruyne wasted another chance, but in the 65th minute, out came Lukaku on the pitch, looking to create an impact. Just within 22 seconds of his arrival, Lukaku forced an own goal out of Mohamed Hany from a cross by Thomas Meunier, levelling the scores.
Belgium tried to make their chances, but Egyptian goalie Mostafa Shobier defended superbly against Brandon Mechele's header, while Lukaku also missed a late chance. The scoreline could not be changed despite five minutes of extra time, and the game ended in a draw.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Salah at 34 still delivering! That assist was pure class. First African player to have a goal involvement on his World Cup birthday - what a legacy. Egypt deserved the win though, they defended brilliantly until that unlucky own goal.
As a neutral fan, this was an exciting match! Belgium dominated possession but Egypt were clinical on the counter. De Bruyne hitting the post was unlucky. Africa's representation in this WC has been impressive so far.
Egypt's attack looks toothless without Salah doing everything. Zico and Marmoush missed good chances in the second half. Belgium's quality showed eventually. As an Indian fan, I can relate - we also rely too much on one star player sometimes.
Honest opinion: Egypt should have won this. They had the better chances and defended their hearts out. That own goal was pure misfortune. Belgium's golden generation is aging but Lukaku still makes an impact. Great game for the neutral!
Salah's birthday involvement stat is incredible! First African player in 58 years to do that on their birthday. Egypt's patience paid off despite the draw. This is why I love watching World Cup football - so many stories within the game. 🌟
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