World Cup: Egypt, Cape Verde sustain African success

Egypt and Cape Verde added to Africa's positive start at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday, earning valuable points against highly regarded European opponents in their opening group matches. After Morocco held Brazil to a 1-1 draw and Côte d'Ivoire secured Africa's first victory with a 1-0 win over Ecuador, Egypt faced Belgium, ending in a 1-1 draw, while debutants Cape Verde managed to frustrate Spain in a goalless stalemate.

In Group G, Egypt delivered one of their most disciplined performances in recent times to deny Belgium a win. Midfielder Emam Ashour provided the Pharaohs with a deserved lead in the 20th minute with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area, marking his first goal in 30 international appearances. Egypt controlled substantial portions of the first half and created better chances, with Zizo and Omar Marmoush both threatening before the halftime interval.

Belgium improved in the second half and equalized in the 61st minute when defender Mohamed Hany inadvertently turned Thomas Meunier's cross into his own net under pressure from substitute Romelu Lukaku. Nevertheless, the Pharaohs refused to falter. Goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir preserved the draw with a crucial save from Brandon Mechele late in the game, allowing Egypt to secure a well-deserved point. This result placed Egypt in a favorable position ahead of their next match against New Zealand scheduled for June 22.

Earlier, World Cup newcomers Cape Verde put up a spirited fight to earn a scoreless draw against the European champions, Spain. The island nation, with a population of about half a million, successfully frustrated one of the tournament’s favorites through a combination of solid defending and exceptional goalkeeping from veteran captain Vozinha.

Spain generated multiple chances, with Ferran Torres hitting the crossbar and forcing several saves from the 40-year-old goalkeeper. Vozinha also denied Pedri and thwarted numerous other Spanish attempts as Cape Verde's defense remained resolute throughout the match. Spain brought on teenage sensation Lamine Yamal in the second half to seek a breakthrough, but Cape Verde's steadfast defense stood firm, securing a memorable point in the country’s first-ever World Cup match.