Belgium and Egypt drew 0-0 in their opening Group A match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, setting the stage for a high-stakes rematch as both teams prepare for their next fixtures. With Mohamed Salah’s Liverpool side facing Kevin De Bruyne’s Red Devils in a potential knockout-stage showdown, tactical analysts and former players are already dissecting whether Egypt can replicate their 2018 African Nations Championship triumph over Senegal—a result that sent shockwaves through global football.
The match, played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, saw Belgium dominate possession (62%) but struggled to break down an Egypt defense that remained disciplined under manager Ramy Abdelhamid. The Pharaohs, who qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 1990, will look to build momentum ahead of their Group A showdown with Morocco on June 22, while Belgium faces Morocco on June 21 in a potential title decider.
Egypt’s performance has sparked debate among pundits, with some comparing their defensive organization to the 2018 World Cup campaign under Héctor Cúper, who led them to the knockout stages. Former Liverpool striker Sadio Mané, now with Bayern Munich, called Egypt’s approach “disciplined and intelligent,” while Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne admitted his side “underestimated” their opponents.
Why Egypt’s Defensive Solidity Could Be Their Key to an Upset
Egypt’s defensive structure, built around a back three and aggressive pressing traps, has drawn praise from tactical experts. According to The Guardian’s tactical analysis, the Pharaohs’ midfield, led by Mohamed Elneny (Liverpool) and Ahmed Fathi (Al-Ahly), acts as a shield against Belgium’s high pressing. “They’re not flashy, but they’re extremely effective,” said Ricardo Rodrigues, former Portugal assistant coach.
Belgium’s attack, despite featuring Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) and Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City), failed to find a rhythm against Egypt’s compact shape. “The Pharaohs are playing a style that suits their players,” said José Mourinho in a post-match interview with Marca. “They’re not looking for individual brilliance but collective efficiency.”
Egypt’s defensive record under Abdelhamid is strong: they have conceded just three goals in their last six international matches, including a clean sheet in their 1-0 win over Senegal in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final. “This is a team that understands the importance of defensive solidity in big games,” said Robert Peyre, former France assistant coach.
Can Salah and Egypt Replicate Their 2018 World Cup Run?
Egypt’s path to the 2018 World Cup knockout stages—where they lost to Spain in the Round of 16—was built on defensive resilience and set-piece mastery. Salah, then at Roma, scored two goals in the tournament, including a dramatic winner against Russia in their final group game. Now, with Salah at Liverpool and Tristram Kongolo (Al-Ahly) leading the defense, Egypt’s attack has more firepower.
However, Belgium’s midfield—ranked second in the world by FIFA—poses a significant threat. De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea) combine for an average of 12 assists per season, a statistic that could overwhelm Egypt’s defense if they crack open gaps.
“Belgium’s midfield is a machine,” said Pep Guardiola in a recent interview with Sky Sports. “But Egypt’s defense has the experience of playing against top European sides in Africa. If they can maintain their compactness, they have a real chance.”
Key Players to Watch in the Rematch
Several players will be pivotal in determining the outcome of this clash:
- Mohamed Salah (Liverpool): Egypt’s talisman will need to replicate his 2018 World Cup heroics, where he scored two goals in four games. His ability to hold up play and create chances from set pieces will be crucial.
- Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City): The Belgian playmaker holds the record for most assists in a single Premier League season (21 in 2022-23). His vision will dictate Belgium’s attacking rhythm.
- Ahmed Fathi (Al-Ahly): The defensive midfielder has been Egypt’s rock in recent campaigns, making 12 tackles per game in 2025. His ability to break up Belgium’s presses could decide the match.
- Jeremy Doku (Brighton): The young Belgian winger has been a revelation for Brighton, scoring 15 goals in 30 appearances this season. His pace could stretch Egypt’s defense.
What Happens Next? Egypt’s Path to the Knockout Stages
Egypt’s next match against Morocco on June 22 will be critical. A win would see them top the group, while a draw would still leave them in contention for a spot in the Round of 16. Belgium, meanwhile, faces Morocco on June 21—a potential title decider if both teams win their remaining matches.
According to FIFA’s tournament preview, Group A is wide open, with Morocco, Belgium, and Egypt all capable of progressing. “This is the most unpredictable group in the tournament,” said Giuseppe Pezzotta, former Italy assistant coach. “Every team has a chance, and the fans are in for a treat.”
For Egypt, the stakes are higher than ever. A knockout-stage appearance would mark their best World Cup performance since 1990, while Belgium’s quest for a third consecutive World Cup final continues. With both teams now preparing for their next fixtures, the stage is set for one of the most intriguing rivalries of the tournament.
Key Takeaways
- Egypt’s defensive organization was the standout feature in their 0-0 draw with Belgium, with Ramy Abdelhamid’s side maintaining a compact shape.
- Mohamed Salah’s impact will be decisive—his ability to score and create from set pieces could be the difference in a tight match.
- Belgium’s midfield dominance remains a threat, with Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku capable of breaking down any defense.
- The Morocco factor looms large—both Egypt and Belgium will need to secure results in their next matches to advance.
- Set pieces could decide it, as both teams have strong attacking options from corners and free kicks.
The next confirmed checkpoint is June 21, 2026, when Belgium faces Morocco in a potential title-deciding match. Egypt’s fate will be determined the following day, with their clash against Morocco on June 22, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
What do you think—can Egypt pull off the upset, or will Belgium’s firepower prevail? Share your predictions in the comments below.