Omar Marmoush and Jeremy Doku were both in action as Egypt and Belgium played out an entertaining 1-1 draw at the World Cup.
Both teams battled temperatures of around 30 degrees Celsius on a sunny day at Seattle Stadium.
Belgium made the brighter start, with Doku pulling the strings as the Red Devils pushed for an early breakthrough.
However, against the run of play, Egypt took the lead in the 19th minute through a stunning long-range strike from Emam Ashour. It was Egypt’s first shot of the match as they chased a first-ever World Cup victory.
Egypt remained dangerous on the counterattack after the break, with Marmoush leading the charge.
The Manchester City forward came close to doubling his side’s advantage in the 59th minute, but a slight nudge from Belgium defender Nathan Ngoy was enough to disrupt his effort.
Marmoush threatened again five minutes later, but his shot took a deflection and went wide for a corner as he continued to trouble the Belgian defence.
Belgium eventually found an equaliser in the 66th minute. Substitute Romelu Lukaku stretched to meet a cross from Thomas Meunier, forcing Egypt defender Mohamed Hany into an own goal.
The match opened up in the closing stages, with both sides creating opportunities to snatch all three points.
Neither team could find a winner, however, as the contest ended in a 1-1 draw.
Belgium will next face Iran on Sunday, June 21, while Egypt take on New Zealand on Monday, June 22.
(The Whistler)
