Egypt's Own Goal Ruins Historic World Cup Win Bid, Draw 1-1 with Belgium

2026 FIFA World Cup Key News

(CNA, Seattle, 15th –综合 international wire reports) Egypt faced Belgium today in their opening Group G match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 'Pharaohs' took an early 1-0 lead in the first half, but conceded an own goal in the second half, ultimately drawing 1-1 and once again missing out on their historic first World Cup victory.

The match was held in Seattle, Washington State, USA. According to FIFA World Cup official data, both teams started the game with a 4-2-3-1 formation.

In the 19th minute of the first half, Egypt launched an attack. Midfielder Emam Ashour received a pass at the top of the penalty arc and fired a long-range shot that flew into the bottom-left corner of the net, giving Egypt a 1-0 lead. In contrast, Belgium attempted eight shots in the first half but failed to register a single shot on target.

In the second half, Egypt continued their offensive pressure, while Belgium's attack temporarily went cold. The 'Pharaohs' appeared poised to secure their first-ever World Cup finals victory.

However, in the 66th minute, the tide turned. Belgium's 'Red Devils' launched an attack and delivered a cross from the flank. In the ensuing chaos, Egyptian defender Mohamed Hany accidentally kicked the ball into his own net, leveling the score at 1-1. The match ended with both teams sharing the points.

Belgium previously achieved their best-ever World Cup result with a third-place finish in 2018. Egypt, meanwhile, is participating in their fourth World Cup, but have yet to secure a win.

With the draw against Belgium, both teams earned one point in Group G of this year's World Cup. The other Group G match, between Iran and New Zealand, will take place later today. (Translation: Chen Yanjun) 1150616

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