A second-half own goal stopped Egypt from earning their first ever World Cup win as Belgium came back to draw 1-1 in their Group G opener in Seattle.
Egypt started strongly and took the lead in the 21st minute. Emam Ashour of Al Ahly scored a brilliant long-range strike, firing the ball into the bottom corner beyond Belgium goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
The Pharaohs, backed by loud and passionate fans on the USA west coast, looked confident as they chased a first World Cup win in their eighth match in the competition.
But Belgium levelled in the 66th minute through an own goal. A low cross from Thomas Meunier was turned into his own net by Egypt defender Mohamed Hany under pressure from substitute Romelu Lukaku.
Egypt had chances to extend their lead before half-time. Mohamed Salah, playing on his 34th birthday, saw a header well saved by Courtois, while Ashour also missed a good rebound opportunity.
Belgium coach Rudi Garcia brought on Lukaku in the second half, and his arrival quickly changed the game. Within moments, Egypt were forced into a mistake that led to the equaliser.
Before the goal, Belgium almost scored when Kevin De Bruyne hit the post from a free-kick as they began to dominate possession.
Egypt, seven-time African champions, have still never won a World Cup match. They have now gone eight games without victory since their first appearance in 1934.
Belgium will now face Iran in Los Angeles in their next Group G match, while Egypt take on New Zealand in Vancouver.
