Romelu Lukaku reminded the world why experience matters at major tournaments, stealing the show in Belgium's 2-2 draw with Egypt in their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Egypt arrived with Mohamed Salah commanding global attention, and Kevin De Bruyne brought his customary star quality for Belgium — yet it was Lukaku who left the biggest footprint on the contest, delivering a commanding display that carried his side through difficult moments.

Lukaku sets the tone

Belgium laboured at stages throughout the match, failing to find the consistency that a side of their quality should produce against disciplined opposition. Egypt, for their part, were far from passive — they pressed and probed, making life uncomfortable for the Red Devils at every turn.

Yet Lukaku rose above the turbulence. The veteran striker demonstrated that when a game demands a player of presence and poise, few in world football can match what he offers. His involvement — physical, intelligent, and decisive — gave Belgium a platform to build from even when the midfield struggled to control proceedings.

Salah and De Bruyne unable to dominate

Much of the pre-match narrative had centred on Salah and De Bruyne, two of the most decorated players in the tournament, lining up on opposite sides of this heavyweight encounter. Neither managed to impose himself fully on the match in the way neutrals had anticipated.

Salah flickered with moments of quality but could not find the decisive touch Egypt needed to turn their effort into victory. De Bruyne, meanwhile, showed his characteristic vision and range of passing but was unable to unlock the Egyptian defence at will.

That vacuum was filled emphatically by Lukaku, whose experience at major tournaments — from the FIFA World Cup to the UEFA European Championship — appeared to guide his every movement and decision on the pitch.

A point each to begin

The 2-2 result means both nations begin their 2026 World Cup campaigns with one point apiece. For Belgium, the draw will feel like a missed opportunity given the attacking talent at their disposal. For Egypt, a share of the spoils against one of Europe's traditional powerhouses represents an encouraging start — one that will energise their supporters and fuel belief in the camp.

Both sides will need to sharpen their performances as the group stage progresses, but the opening meeting has already served up a reminder that the World Cup rarely follows the script — and that players like Lukaku thrive precisely when the stage is at its grandest.