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Belgium draws with Egypt in World Cup opener amid veteran concerns

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 1:57 AM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

Belgium draws with Egypt in World Cup opener amid veteran concerns

Summary

Belgium began its World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Egypt on June 16 in Seattle. The match saw Romelu Lukaku create a scoring opportunity leading to an equalizing own goal shortly after entering as a substitute in the 66th minute. Despite high expectations following their top FIFA ranking for several years, Belgium struggled against a younger Egyptian squad. Captain Youri Tielemans acknowledged a poor start, and coach Rudi Garcia emphasized the need for a win against Iran in their next match on June 18.

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By the Numbers

•Belgium and Egypt tied 1-1 in the World Cup opener.
•Romelu Lukaku returned from injury, prompting an equalizing own goal.
•Egypt's young players outperformed Belgium in the first half.
•Belgium ranked 10th, still aiming to make a deep run.
•Next match is against Iran on June 18.

Latest Updates

1:57 AMYahoo Sports — Belgium and its 'Golden Generation' veterans get off to unimpressive start in World Cup

What they're saying

"
Seeking to avoid a repeat of its early World Cup exit in 2022, Belgium got off to an unimpressive start. Romelu Lukaku entered in the 66th minute against Egypt on Monday and the veteran striker immediately created a scoring chance that led to an equalizing own goal, but that was all Belgium could manage in a 1-1 draw. “No game’s an easy game in the World Cup,” coach Rudi Garcia said in French.
— Yahoo Sportsby CONNOR JOYCE

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