Belgium Slammed After Egypt Equalizer in 1-1 Draw

Belgium continued to disappoint in its match against Egypt, with the teams level at 1-1 as of the article’s report. The Red Devils had hoped to start fresh after recent setbacks, but their performance drew sharp criticism from Belgian media figures and former national team players.

Former Belgium defender Toby Alderweireld criticized the goal Belgium conceded to Imam Ashour, saying the team was not sharp enough and that Thomas Meunier was too far away from his marker. “It’s an annoying goal. You need to get into the game. Just play simple,” he said.

Commentator Ludo Vandewalle said Belgium could not find openings in Egypt’s strong defense, adding that Jeremy Doku could not find space as he had against Croatia and Tunisia. He said expectations had not been met and suggested the heat was only part of the explanation, because Egypt was playing with more intensity and defending more sharply. He also said Ashour was given too much room to score and that Belgium needed change.

At halftime, journalist Sacha Tavolieri was even harsher, saying Belgium had not reached the World Cup, that there were too many gaps between the defense and midfield, and that the team was playing “with fear in its stomach.” He warned that Egypt’s attack was waiting for every opening and urged the players to wake up.