Monday, June 15, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Egypt will test Belgium in opener

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Kevin de Bruyne said he is looking forward to facing Mohamed Salah again and expects Egypt to be a difficult opponent.

Belgium midfielder Kevin de Bruyne said he is looking forward to facing Mohamed Salah again when Belgium open their 2026 World Cup campaign against Egypt on Monday.

Belgium enter the tournament with de Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku and Thibaut Courtois still central to the squad, alongside younger players including Jeremy Doku, Amadou Onana and Charles De Ketelaere.

Egypt are making their fourth World Cup appearance and are still seeking their first win at the tournament. The Pharaohs beat Belgium 2-1 in the last meeting between the two teams, a friendly in November 2022.