Overview
- Belgium opened the 2026 World Cup with a 1-1 draw against Egypt in Seattle after Romelu Lukaku came off the bench and helped force an equalizing own-goal.
- The team started Charles De Ketelaere as the lone striker, a deliberate selection that gave Belgium a different focal point up front from the opening whistle.
- Lukaku entered in the 66th minute and within about a minute his presence pressured Egypt defender Mohamed Hany into an own-goal that tied the match.
- Garcia told reporters that Lukaku is not injured but that 64 minutes of club action last season and lingering fitness struggles prevent him from starting, so he will be used as a ‘super-sub’.
- Belgium now faces Iran next in Group G with all four teams level on points and must balance veteran leaders, including Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne, with younger players as it defines its tournament approach.