Belgium came from behind to earn a 1-1 draw against Egypt in their opening FIFA World Cup Group G match in Seattle.
Egypt looked set to secure their first-ever World Cup victory after midfielder Emam Ashour gave the Pharaohs the lead in the 21st minute.
Backed by a passionate support base, Egypt defended resolutely and took their 1-0 advantage into halftime as Belgium struggled to break down the seven-time African champions.
However, Belgium found a way back into the match in the 66th minute when a low cross from Thomas Meunier was turned into his own net by Egypt defender Mohamed Hany.
The equaliser denied Egypt what would have been a historic first World Cup win in their eighth match at the tournament, having made their World Cup debut in 1934.
Egypt were forced to defend deep in the closing stages but managed to hold on for a point and avoid defeat at a World Cup for only the third time in their history.
The result sees both teams begin their Group G campaign with a point.
Belgium will next face Iran next Monday at 7am before concluding their Group G campaign against New Zealand next Saturday at 3pm.
Egypt will take on New Zealand next Monday at 1pm before meeting Iran in their final pool match next Saturday at 3pm.
Meanwhile, in another result, debutants Cape Verde held Spain to a nil-all draw.
Saudi Arabia will face Uruguay at 10am, while Iran and New Zealand will go head-to-head at 1pm.
Stay with us for more updates from the FIFA World Cup.
Source: BBC Sports
