The goals, minute by minute
- 20'Emam AshourGoal · 0-1
- 66'Mohamed HanyOwn goal · 1-1
The preview
Written before the match. We've left it as it was, even where the game said otherwise.
Context
Belgium (9th FIFA) vs Egypt (~33rd FIFA)
Level of the teams
- Belgium: 9th in the ranking, generation led by Kevin De Bruyne; unbeaten in its recent matches (18:3 in goals).
- Egypt: unbeaten African qualifying campaign, led by Mohamed Salah, its all-time top scorer.
Key factors
- Belgium has more squad depth and collective pedigree.
- Egypt relies heavily on Salah's inspiration.
- Battle of stars: De Bruyne vs Salah.
Prediction
Most likely result: 2-1 Belgium (alternative: 1-1)
- Belgium win: 50%
- Draw: 27%
- Egypt win: 23%
Player to watch: Mohamed Salah, can level any game on his own.
Final verdict, Confidence: medium-high
Belgium is the favorite on squad depth, but Egypt with Salah is always dangerous. A narrow Belgian win is the most likely scenario.