Lukaku denies Egypt as Belgium salvage draw in Seattle

Emam Ashour's first international goal had Egypt on course for a famous win until substitute Romelu Lukaku forced an own goal within seconds of coming on, earning Belgium a 1-1 draw.

Egypt were left to rue what might have been as Belgium fought back for a 1-1 draw in Seattle. The Pharaohs were denied a famous first World Cup victory by the instant impact of substitute Romelu Lukaku.

The Africans were the better side for an hour and led through a deserved goal. On 19 minutes Emam Ashour struck his first international goal, finishing with confidence to silence a Belgium side that looked short of ideas.

Egypt held that lead into the second half and looked increasingly comfortable, until Belgium turned to their record goalscorer. Romelu Lukaku was introduced just after the hour, and the equaliser arrived barely 23 seconds later. The striker charged through the middle and his presence forced Mohamed Hany into turning the ball into his own net.

It was a cruel way to concede, and Belgium grew in confidence thereafter, but Egypt steadied themselves and saw the game out for a point. On the balance of play, they will feel they deserved more.

The draw leaves Group G tightly packed, with all four teams now level on a point following Iran's earlier stalemate with New Zealand. For Egyptian and African fans watching in Kenya, there was real pride in the performance, and a sense that, but for one Lukaku cameo, this could have been a landmark night.