Despite being record Africa Cup of Nations winners, Egypt have a poor record across their previous three World Cup appearances, and have now failed to win any of their eight games since their debut 92 years ago.
After going ahead, they nearly doubled their lead before the break when Mostafa Zico’s drilled strike across goal was tipped behind by Belgium keeper Courtois.
Playing on his 34th birthday, Egypt captain Mohamed Salah also had a second-half header well-saved by Courtois and goalscorer Ashour failed to hit the target on the rebound.
Belgium manager Rudi Garcia introduced the Red Devils’ all-time leading goalscorer Lukaku in the 66th minute – and seconds later his presence spooked Hany into his error.
Hamstring injuries had limited Lukaku to just 40 minutes in Serie A for Napoli across the 2025-26 season.
A few minutes before the equaliser, his club team-mate Kevin de Bruyne had struck the outside of the post from a free-kick as Belgium started to take control.
