Lukaku's instant impact rescues Belgium as Egypt are denied historic first win

Egypt arrived in Seattle chasing a first World Cup victory in 92 years of history, and for an hour at Lumen Field they looked capable of delivering it. Instead they had to settle for a point as Belgium dug out a 1-1 draw in front of 66,775 spectators on the opening day of Group G.

Ashour fires the Pharaohs ahead

Emam Ashour broke the deadlock in the 19th minute, sweeping home his first international goal after a clever assist from Mohamed Salah, who was celebrating his 34th birthday. The involvement made Salah the first African player on record since 1966 to register a World Cup goal contribution on his birthday, and Egypt grew in confidence as the half wore on.

Lukaku changes everything

Belgium's response came from the bench. Just 22 seconds after Romelu Lukaku was introduced, his presence in the box helped force Mohamed Hany into an unfortunate own goal in the 66th minute, Thomas Meunier's cross deflecting in off the defender. The equaliser knocked the wind out of Egypt, who could not find a winner.

A draw left both nations level on a single point, with Egypt ruing how close they came to a landmark result and Belgium grateful for the depth that rescued them.