Egypt came close to making history on the World Cup stage but ultimately failed to take all three points. Despite playing disciplined and confident football throughout the match, the African side let victory slip away because of an own goal. After leading for a long stretch against Belgium, Mohamed Salah’s side had to leave the field level at 1-1.
Egypt played with an attacking mindset from the start. With captain Mohamed Salah at the heart of fast-paced attacks, they repeatedly pressured Belgium’s defense. Belgium, meanwhile, began the match with star striker Romelu Lukaku on the bench.
Although Belgium had slightly more of the ball in the first half, they failed to create any clear chances. Egypt were the more effective side in attack. In the 19th minute, the African side was rewarded for that dominance. Imam Ashour rattled the Belgian net with a superb long-range shot from outside the box. It was his first international goal, and it gave Egypt the lead they wanted on a stage as big as the World Cup.
Egypt grew more confident after the goal, playing well-organized football in midfield and defense. Although Belgium attacked repeatedly, the resolve of the Egyptian defenders thwarted all their efforts. Egypt went into the break leading 1-0, also setting a record as the first side to finish the first half ahead in a World Cup match.
As expected, Belgium increased the intensity of their attacks after the break, launching one assault after another in search of an equalizer. In the 53rd minute, Kevin De Bruyne came close to scoring. His fine free-kick struck the post, to Egypt’s relief.
But Belgium’s pressure kept mounting. The equalizer finally came in the 66th minute, though in the most disappointing way for Egypt. Defender Mohamed Hany, attempting to stop substitute Romelu Lukaku, turned the ball into his own net. That own goal brought Belgium level at 1-1. It was the third own goal of this World Cup. With that single mistake, Egypt lost two valuable points after coming so close to victory. Belgium, who struggled to find their rhythm, had the relief of leaving the field with at least one point.
Both sides searched for a winning goal until the final whistle, but no further goals were scored. The match ended 1-1. Despite an outstanding performance, Egypt had to leave the field with the regret of an own goal, while Belgium had to settle for a shared point.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report