Egypt Takes Lead Against Belgium in 2026 World Cup Opener

The opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup featured Egypt facing Belgium at Lumen Field in Seattle, USA, as part of the group stage.

Egypt is competing in Group G, which also includes Iran and New Zealand.

The Pharaohs took the lead against the Red Devils with a stunning goal from Imam Ashour. He capitalized on a precise pass from team captain Mohamed Salah near the edge of the penalty area. Ashour skillfully controlled the ball before unleashing a powerful shot that found the bottom left corner of the Belgian net, putting Egypt ahead.

⚽️🔥🔥 Imam Ashour converts Egypt’s dominance into a spectacular goal against Belgium with an unstoppable strike! #WorldCup2026 | #FIFAWorldCup2026 | #beINWC26 pic.twitter.com/ALrQwjhKqB

— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS) June 15, 2026.

With this goal, Imam Ashour etched his name in history, marking his first goal for Egypt after playing 30 matches for the national team.

In their next group match, Egypt will face New Zealand, followed by a showdown against Iran in their final group stage game.

Egypt’s Lineup Against Belgium

Goalkeeper: Mostafa Shobeir.

Defenders: Mohamed Hani, Hamdi Fathy, Yasser Ibrahim, Ahmed Fattouh.

Midfielders: Marwan Attia, Mohannad Lashin, Imam Ashour.

Forwards: Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush, Mostafa Ziko.

Belgium’s Lineup Against Egypt

Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois.

Defenders: Thomas Meunier, Nathan Ngoy, Brandon Mechele, Timothy Castagne.

Midfielders: Youri Tielemans, Amadou Onana, Kevin De Bruyne.

Forwards: Leandro Trossard, Charles De Ketelaere, Jeremy Doku.

Read more:.

• A Historic Milestone for Mohamed Salah with Egypt Against Belgium in the 2026 World Cup
• Hossam Hassan: Belgium is Egypt’s Toughest Opponent in the Group
• Hossam Ghaly: Egypt Can Surprise Belgium in the World Cup
• Diplomatic Gesture: Foreign Minister Gifts Belgian Counterpart an Egyptian National Team Jersey Before Match