2026 World Cup: Belgium Survive Egypt, Iran Grab One Point, Uruguay Fail To Beat Saudi

Egypt were left to rue a missed chance for a historic first FIFA World Cup win after a second-half own goal handed Belgium a 1-1 draw in their Group G opener in Seattle.

The Pharaohs looked on course to break their World Cup duck when Al Ahly midfielder Emam Ashour fired them ahead in the 21st minute, smashing a powerful 20-yard effort beyond Thibaut Courtois. Egypt controlled long spells and moved within touching distance of a landmark win.

Belgium, however, found a way back midway through the second half. Thomas Meunier’s low delivery caused problems inside the box and defender Mohamed Hany inadvertently turned the ball into his own net under pressure from substitute Romelu Lukaku in the 66th minute. Egypt held firm in the closing stages to secure a point, marking only the third time they have avoided defeat in a World Cup match.

Iran Fight Back Twice to Earn Draw Against New Zealand

Iran came from behind on two occasions to force a 2-2 draw with New Zealand in an entertaining Group G clash in Los Angeles.

New Zealand made a dream start when Motherwell forward Elijah Just rifled a half-volley into the net after Chris Wood expertly held up play and teed him up.

The Oceania side carried the greater threat early on, but Iran gradually settled and levelled through Ramin Rezaeian, who calmly flicked the ball past goalkeeper Max Crocombe following the first-half hydration break.

Iran had already threatened through Mehdi Taremi, whose fierce long-range strike rattled the post, while another effort was ruled out for offside. Just restored New Zealand’s lead after the halftime break, combining again with Wood before lifting the ball over Alireza Beiranvand.

Yet Iran responded once more as Mohammad Mohebbi met Rezaeian’s cross with a well-placed header that clipped the inside of the post on its way in. The result leaves all four teams in Group G level on one point after the opening round of fixtures.

Uruguay Salvage Point Against Saudi Arabia in Group H Thriller

Maxi Araujo scored late to rescue Uruguay from defeat as Saudi Arabia were denied another famous opening-match victory at the World Cup.

Saudi Arabia, who shocked Argentina in their first game at the 2022 tournament, looked set for another major upset after Abdulelah al Amri bundled home shortly before half-time. The goal came after Hassan al Tambakti’s powerful header from a corner was parried by Uruguay goalkeeper Fernando Muslera, allowing Al Amri to react quickest.

Uruguay dominated after the break and head coach Marcelo Bielsa’s tactical changes transformed the contest. Former Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez was among those withdrawn as the South Americans increased the pressure.

Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed al Owais produced a string of saves, including a fine stop to push Manuel Ugarte’s effort onto the post. The resistance finally cracked 10 minutes from time when Araujo converted after Al Owais had parried Federico Vinas’ header.

The Saudi keeper continued to impress with nine saves, notably denying Federico Valverde in stoppage time. Naija News reports that Group H remains wide open heading into the second round of matches following Cape Verde’s surprise draw with Spain.