\n\nEgypt was denied a historic first-ever FIFA World Cup victory after Belgium fought back to earn a 1-1 draw in their Group G opener in Seattle.
The Pharaohs took a surprise lead in the 21st minute through Al Ahly midfielder Emam Ashour, whose powerful 20-yard strike beat Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and found the bottom corner.
Backed by a passionate crowd, Egypt looked on course to secure its first World Cup win after seven previous attempts. However, Belgium found an equaliser in the 66th minute when Thomas Meunier’s low cross was inadvertently turned into his own net by defender Mohamed Hany while under pressure from substitute Romelu Lukaku.
Despite late pressure from Belgium, Egypt held firm to secure a valuable point and avoid defeat at a World Cup for only the third time in their history.
The result leaves both teams with a point as Group G action gets underway.
