Egypt faced off against Belgium Monday in Group G's opener,ending in a tie after both teams scored. Egypt started strong,but Belgium equalized soon after making key substitution.
Egyptians took early initiative. Midfielder Emam Ashour scored a stunning goal from distance in 19th minute — his first for national team in 30 matches. Mohamed Salah,celebrating his 34th birthday, got yellow card before assisting Ashour with perfectly timed pass. Ashour's shot zipped past Thibaut Courtois,Real Madrid's keeper,into the lower left corner.
But Egypt's lead was threatened as Belgium surged forward. They dominated possession,attempting eight shots in first half,though none troubled Egyptian keeper Mostafa Shoubir. Egypt,meanwhile,had both attempts on target.
Second half,Belgium upped intensity. Salah almost doubled Egypt’s lead in 55th minute with a header, expertly saved by Courtois. Omar Marmoush came close soon after,but his shot deflected wide.
Game changed when Romelu Lukaku entered in 66th minute. Just 28 seconds later,he connected with a Thomas Meunier cross,leading to an own goal by Mohamed Hany that tied the score.
After equalizer, Egypt's coach Hossam Hassan subbed Salah out in 75th minute,ending a promising outing. Match ended in stalemate,with Egypt still chasing first win in four attempts at this tournament.
Both teams now look to their next games… Group stage just getting started.
