Belgium Salvages 1-1 Egypt Draw as Lukaku Forces 66th-Minute Own Goal

Q: Could US visa issues for Iran give Group G rivals Belgium and Egypt an unfair advantage in the World Cup?

Yes. The visa and travel restrictions affecting Iran could give Belgium and Egypt a real competitive edge in Group G, even if Iran’s players are still allowed to compete. The main issue is not Iran’s eligibility to play, but the conditions under which it must operate. Iran has reportedly had to base itself in Tijuana rather than the United States, make same-day cross-border trips for matches, and cope with visa problems affecting around 15 officials and support staff. That can disrupt recovery, training routines, match preparation and media operations in ways Belgium and Egypt do not appear to face. There is also the crowd factor. Reports say Iranian supporters have been heavily limited by U.S. entry rules, with thousands of tickets for fans reportedly revoked. A reduced fan presence can affect atmosphere and morale, especially in a short group stage where small margins matter. Belgium, by contrast, is far less exposed to such travel barriers, and Egypt, while its fans may face visa difficulties, is not reported to be under the same level of operational restriction as Iran. That said, the advantage is indirect rather than automatic. FIFA has said host governments control immigration decisions, and Iran’s squad has still obtained the visas needed to play. Results will still depend on performance on the field. But in practical terms, unequal travel, staffing and supporter access risk undermining sporting fairness and could benefit Iran’s rivals, including Belgium and Egypt.

3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 15

Mohamed Hany’s 66th-minute own goal rescued Belgium a point after Romelu Lukaku came on and immediately disrupted Egypt’s back line.
Emam Ashour had put Egypt ahead in the 20th minute, finishing Mohamed Salah’s pass for his first international goal on his 30th appearance.
Belgium controlled much of the ball but created little until after halftime, when Kevin De Bruyne hit the post from a 53rd-minute free kick and Lukaku’s introduction changed the match.
Seattle’s noon kickoff was played under a heat advisory at 30C, with cooling breaks and 66,775 fans watching a result that leaves Group G open for both sides against Iran and New Zealand.