Nigeria, June 16 -- Egypt and Cape Verde added to Africa's positive start at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday, earning valuable points against highly fancied European opponents in their opening group matches.

After Morocco held Brazil to a 1-1 draw and Cote d'Ivoire secured Africa's first victory with a 1-0 win over Ecuador, Egypt battled Belgium to a 1-1 draw while debutants Cape Verde frustrated Spain in a goalless stalemate.

In Group G, Egypt produced one of their most disciplined performances in recent years to deny Belgium victory.

Midfielder Emam Ashour gave the Pharaohs a deserved lead in the 20th minute with a powerful strike from outside the penalty area, scoring his first goal in 30 international appearances.

Egypt controll...