Ashour strike puts De Bruyne and Co on back foot

Emam Ashour struck a wonderful opener to give Egypt a shock lead against Belgium in Seattle.

Ashour was picked out by Mohamed Salah and, having found space on the edge of the area, the Al Ahly forward took a touch before lashing a low drive past Thibaut Courtois.

The 18th-minute effort was Ashour’s first international goal for the Pharaohs.

It was reward for a robust start from Egypt who had kept a close eye on Belgium danger man Jeremy Doku with a series of strong challenges that prevented the Manchester City winger from having any meaningful impact down the left flank.

Belgium only had one half-chance in the opening 25 minutes with Kevin De Bruyne firing wide from the edge of the area.

Where to Watch Belgium v Egypt

Kick-off is scheduled for 12:00 local time in Seattle on Monday, and 20:00 in the UK.

Live coverage will be available on BBC, with streaming available through the BBC iPlayer.

International broadcast options will vary by region.

Stats for Belgium v Egypt

• Belgium failed to progress beyond the group stage at the 2022 World Cup despite being among the pre-tournament favourites.
• The Red Devils scored 29 goals and conceded just seven during World Cup qualifying.
• Belgium have won three of their last four friendly matches heading into the tournament.
• Egypt qualified unbeaten from their CAF qualifying group.
• The Pharaohs are appearing at just their fourth World Cup finals.
• Egypt have won three of their four previous meetings with Belgium.
• The most recent meeting between the sides ended in a 2-1 Egypt victory in November 2022.
• Mohamed Salah remains Egypt’s key attacking threat but enters the tournament carrying a recent hamstring concern.
• Belgium have kept clean sheets in each of their last two matches.
• Romelu Lukaku is Belgium’s all-time leading goalscorer and will spearhead the attack.