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Belgium Avoids Defeat Through Own Goal in World Cup Opener

The match between Belgium and Egypt at Seattle Stadium ended in a 1–1 draw. On June 16, in Kathmandu, Belgium managed to escape defeat in their opening game of the FIFA World Cup 2026 due to an own goal. In the 19th minute, Egypt’s Imam Ashour scored to give his team the lead. However, an own goal in the 66th minute forced Egypt to settle for a draw. Belgium capitalized on an unfortunate shot from Egypt’s Mohammad Hany that went into his own net, allowing Belgium to get back into the game. Both Belgium and Egypt, in Group G, now share one point each. Matches between Iran and New Zealand in this group are yet to be played.