Connect with us

Sports

Late own goal denies Egypt historic World Cup win against Belgium

Published

on

Stay Connected

Follow Very Nigerian

Get the latest Nigerian news, trending stories and breaking updates directly on WhatsApp.

Join Our Channel →
WhatsApp

A late second-half own goal by defender Mohamed Hany denied Egypt a historic first-ever World Cup victory as Belgium fought back to secure a 1-1 draw in their Group G opener in Seattle.

The Pharaohs took a surprise lead in the 21st minute through Emam Ashour, who unleashed a stunning 20-yard strike that flew past Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and into the bottom corner.

Egypt, backed by a vibrant travelling support on the US west coast, looked on course for a famous win as they sought to end a winless World Cup run stretching across eight matches since their debut in 1934.

However, Belgium levelled in the 66th minute when Thomas Meunier’s low cross was turned into his own net under pressure from substitute Romelu Lukaku, who had been introduced moments earlier by coach Rudi Garcia.

The equaliser arrived just seconds after Lukaku’s introduction, as his presence unsettled the Egyptian defence and forced Hany into the costly error.

Egypt captain Mohamed Salah also came close to restoring the lead, but his second-half header was brilliantly saved by Thibaut Courtois, while Ashour failed to convert the rebound.

Belgium gradually grew into the contest, with Kevin De Bruyne striking the outside of the post from a free-kick as they pushed for a winner.

Despite late pressure, Egypt held firm to secure only their third-ever World Cup draw, but were left frustrated after coming within minutes of a landmark victory.

Uchechi Eugene is a passionate writer and blogger with several years of experience, having reported for top Nigerian media houses. A proud graduate of Imo State University (IMSU), Uchechi combines a love for journalism and storytelling to create engaging content that informs and inspires readers.

Advertisement Follow Us on Google Discover
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Politics8 hours ago

ADC Court Verdict: Step down for Obi, support NDC – Isaac Fayose tells Atiku

Politics9 hours ago

Former Kwara Commissioner Adenike Adesida resigns from APC

Politics10 hours ago

Despite Court ruling, Atiku leads ADC mega rally in Kebbi amid massive crowd

Metro12 hours ago

Two feared killed, 20 abducted as terrorists attack Kaduna community

News12 hours ago

PSC deploy four commissioners to Plateau, Enugu, Nasarawa, Ondo

Politics13 hours ago

‘Atiku is the greatest threat to Tinubu, without him on the ballot, Tinubu will defeat Obi by over 7 Million votes’ — Deji Adeyanju

Politics13 hours ago

2027: Massive crowd as Shettima, Yilwatda lead Tinubu mega rally in Ekiti (Photo)

National News14 hours ago

Tinubu’s visit: Akwa Ibom Police ban drones, fireworks, restrict traffic in Uyo

News16 hours ago

Akwa Ibom govt declares Friday public holiday ahead of Tinubu’s visit

Politics16 hours ago

After Sokoto rally, Tinubu officials held late night meeting to plot judgement against Atiku, we are gathering facts to engage Trump administration – US Lobby Firm

Politics16 hours ago

I will revive Calabar Port, restore Cross River tourism – Peter Obi

News16 hours ago

FCCPC shuts down food firms after oil, salt samples fail fortification tests

News16 hours ago

NYSC abduction trial: Two defendants deny involvement, beg court for release

Politics16 hours ago

‘He hasn’t resumed office, yet he’s tired’ — Oshiomhole takes dig at Obi after exhaustion report

Politics17 hours ago

‘There Is No Shaking’ — Atiku reacts to Court judgment, vows to continue ADC campaign, says APC afraid after Sokoto rally

Uncategorized20 hours ago

BREAKING: Atiku candidacy voided as Court sacks David Mark-Led ADC leadership, recognises Nafiu Gombe as party chairman

News22 hours ago

FG unveils five digital banks to receive N50,000 monthly cash support

News2 days ago

How Peter Obi’s convoy was attacked in Calabar – Details Emerge

Politics1 day ago

“We cannot allow Peter Obi to fund the election alone” — Aisha Yesufu seeks donations for Obi-Kwankwaso

Politics16 hours ago

After Sokoto rally, Tinubu officials held late night meeting to plot judgement against Atiku, we are gathering facts to engage Trump administration – US Lobby Firm

Politics1 day ago

Atiku tsunami as ADC holds successful presidential campaign rally in Sokoto

Politics17 hours ago

Nafiu Gombe celebrates nullification of David Mark-led excos, releases official portrait as ADC chairman

Editorials18 hours ago

“They Are Making Him More Popular” — Reactions trail nullification of Atiku, other ADC candidacies

Business News2 days ago

Petrol rises to N1,370 per litre as depots increase prices

News2 days ago

2027: Atiku arrives Sokoto for ADC Presidential campaign flag-off (Photos)

News2 days ago

DSS counters Atiku, says two operatives hurt while protecting Sokoto ADC guber candidate; arrested, jailed man who threatened Obi

Politics2 days ago

2027: Atiku heads to Sokoto for ADC Presidential campaign flag-off

Politics2 days ago

2027: Mammoth crowd welcomes Obi, Kwankwaso to Calabar for Town Hall meeting

Politics2 days ago

Tension as Obi/Kwankwaso supporters clash with APC supporters in Calabar, police intervene

National News2 days ago

BREAKING: Tinubu seeks fresh $7.7bn foreign borrowing, writes Senate