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Jun 18, 20261
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Belgium draws with Egypt in World Cup opener as Tielemans and Onana feature
Belgium drew 1-1 with Egypt in their World Cup opener, with an own goal by Egyptian defender Muhammad Hani equalizing in the 63rd minute. Captain Youri Tielemans played the full match while midfielder Emmanuel Onana started and played 56 minutes.

Quick Facts
Who
Belgium national football team
What
World Cup group stage match
When
June 18, 2026
Where
World Cup 2026
- World Cup group stage match
- Egypt scored first
- Belgium equalized via own goal
- Match ended in draw
- Tielemans played as captain
Belgium's World Cup campaign began with a 1-1 draw against Egypt on June 18, 2026. Egypt took the lead early in the match, but Belgium mounted a second-half comeback to claim a point. In the 63rd minute, captain Youri Tielemans delivered a precise pass to the right flank, which Thomas Meunier converted into a dangerous cross. The cross led to an own goal by Egypt defender Muhammad Hani as he attempted to clear the ball, equalizing the match. Tielemans played the full 90 minutes as captain, anchoring Belgium's midfield and driving the team's performance throughout the match. Midfielder Emmanuel Onana also started for Belgium but was substituted in the 56th minute. While Belgium missed the opportunity to start with a victory, the draw keeps them competitive in Group G. Belgium will face Iran in their next group match on June 21, with qualification hopes still intact following this hard-fought opening fixture.
Why This Matters
Belgium's opening draw with Egypt demonstrates both resilience and vulnerability in their World Cup Group G campaign. While the own-goal equalizer suggests defensive opportunities for opponents, the team's ability to mount a second-half comeback and secure a point keeps qualification hopes alive heading into their critical match against Iran. Captain Tielemans' full-match performance signals midfield stability, but the substitution of Onana early in the second half raises questions about tactical adjustments and player fitness that could impact upcoming fixtures.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WireBelgium vs Egypt World Cup Group G match
Jun 21, 2026
WireBelgium scheduled to face Iran in next Group G match