Belgium secured their first point in Group G of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations after Romelu Lukaku scored a late winner against Egypt in a tense 1-0 victory on Saturday. The goal, coming in the 72nd minute, ended a scoreless first half and marked Lukaku’s first tournament goal since joining Chelsea in 2022. The win keeps Belgium top of their group with three points from three matches remaining.
Lukaku’s strike was the culmination of a sustained Belgian attack that saw them dominate possession in the second half. The Egyptian defense, led by captain Ahmed Fathy, struggled to contain Belgium’s midfield control, with Kevin De Bruyne and Youri Tielemans orchestrating the play. The goal came after a quick counterattack, with Lukaku rounding goalkeeper Mohamed Shabana with a low shot from outside the box.
Egypt, who had been hoping to earn their first point of the tournament, were unable to break down Belgium’s defense, despite creating several chances in the opening stages. The match was played at the Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakrah, Qatar, as part of the expanded 24-team format for this year’s Africa Cup of Nations.
How Lukaku’s Goal Secured Belgium’s First Points
Lukaku’s goal was the product of both individual brilliance and teamwork. According to BBC Sport, the striker received the ball on the right flank before cutting inside and firing a low shot past Shabana. The goal was his first for Belgium since a header in a 2-1 friendly win over Morocco in November 2022.
The victory is particularly significant for Belgium, who have struggled in recent international tournaments. Their last major trophy came in 2018 when they finished third at the World Cup. The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations is their first appearance in the competition since 1992, and the team is seen as underdogs against more experienced African sides.
Egypt, meanwhile, had been expected to perform strongly after reaching the final of the 2017 edition. However, their campaign has been inconsistent, with a 1-0 defeat to Nigeria in their opening match. The loss to Belgium means they now face a tough task to qualify for the knockout stages.
Key Moments: Belgium’s Dominance in the Second Half
While the first half was largely goalless, Belgium took control in the second period. According to Reuters, the Red Devils created several clear chances, with Lukaku and Hans Vanaken both testing Shabana’s defenses. The Egyptian goalkeeper made several crucial saves, including a one-on-one stop from Vanaken in the 65th minute.
The turning point came in the 72nd minute when Lukaku received the ball from De Bruyne on the right wing. After a quick exchange with Thomas Meunier, Lukaku rounded Shabana with a low shot that found the bottom corner of the net. The goal was met with jubilation from the Belgian players and fans, who had been pressing for a breakthrough after a slow start.
Egypt responded with increased pressure in the final 20 minutes, but Belgium’s defense, led by captain Toby Alderweireld, held firm. The match ended with Belgium maintaining a narrow lead, securing their first point in the tournament.
What Happens Next for Belgium and Egypt?
Belgium now face a crucial match against Morocco on January 28, with a victory needed to maintain their lead in Group G. According to the official Africa Cup of Nations schedule, the group stage concludes on February 1, with the top two teams advancing to the knockout rounds.
Egypt, meanwhile, will look to bounce back in their final group match against Senegal. The Pharaohs will need to secure a win to have any chance of progressing, given their current position in the table. Senegal, who have already qualified for the knockout stages, will be playing for pride in their final group game.
Lukaku’s Impact: A Lifeline for Belgium’s Campaign
Lukaku’s goal was a crucial moment for Belgium, who had been criticized for their lack of goalscoring in recent years. The striker, who has been in fine form for Chelsea this season, provided the lead Belgium needed to take control of the match. According to The Guardian, his performance was a reminder of why he remains one of the world’s most dangerous strikers.
The victory also marks a turning point for Belgium’s manager, Domenico Tedesco. The Italian tactician has been given the unenviable task of rebuilding a team that has struggled in recent years. While Belgium have a talented squad, they have often been unable to translate that talent into results. This win could be the first step in a resurgence for the Red Devils.
For Lukaku, the goal is a personal milestone. After a difficult period in his career, including a brief return to Inter Milan in 2021, the striker has rediscovered his form at Chelsea. His goal against Egypt could be the start of a resurgence in his international career, with the 2026 World Cup in mind.
Group G Standings After Belgium’s Victory
As of the match’s conclusion, Group G stands as follows:
- Belgium – 3 points (W 1, D 0, L 0)
- Egypt – 0 points (W 0, D 0, L 1)
- Morocco – 0 points (W 0, D 0, L 0)
- Senegal – 0 points (W 0, D 0, L 0)
Belgium now sit atop the group, with Egypt in second place but needing to win their remaining matches to have any chance of progressing. Morocco and Senegal remain in contention for the final two knockout spots.
Looking Ahead: Belgium’s Path to the Knockout Stages
Belgium’s next challenge comes in their match against Morocco on January 28. According to UEFA’s schedule, the match will be played at the same venue in Al Wakrah. A victory would give Belgium six points, putting them in a strong position to advance.
If Belgium win their final group match against Senegal, they will finish the group stage with nine points, ensuring their place in the knockout rounds. The knockout stages begin on February 3, with the quarter-finals scheduled for February 7 and 8.
For Egypt, the road ahead is more challenging. They will need to secure at least two wins from their remaining matches to have any chance of progressing. Their next game is against Senegal on January 28, followed by a final match against Morocco on February 1.
Why This Win Matters for Belgium’s Long-Term Prospects
This victory is more than just a point in the group stage; it is a statement of intent for Belgium. The team has long been considered one of the world’s best, yet they have failed to deliver in major tournaments in recent years. This win could be the spark that reignites their campaign.
Belgium’s squad is deep in talent, with players like De Bruyne, Vanaken, and Alderweireld providing leadership. Lukaku’s goal was a reminder that they still have world-class attacking options. If they can maintain this form, they could go far in this tournament.
For Lukaku, this goal could also be the start of a resurgence in his international career. After a period of inconsistency, he has rediscovered his form and is now a key player for Belgium. His performance against Egypt could be the catalyst for a strong showing in the knockout stages.
Final Thoughts: A Tight Game with Big Stakes
The match between Belgium and Egypt was a tight affair, with both teams creating chances but Belgium ultimately coming out on top. Lukaku’s goal was the difference, and it could prove to be a turning point in Belgium’s campaign.
For Egypt, the defeat is a setback, but they still have a chance to qualify for the knockout stages. Their next matches will be crucial as they look to bounce back from this loss.
As the group stage progresses, all four teams in Group G will be looking to secure their place in the knockout rounds. Belgium’s victory over Egypt is a strong start, but the road ahead remains challenging. The next few matches will determine who advances to the quarter-finals.
Next on the schedule: Belgium face Morocco on January 28, with Egypt taking on Senegal the same day. The final group stage matches are scheduled for February 1.
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