Belgium and Egypt ended their Group G match in a 1-1 draw on Monday, following a first-half goal from Emam Ashour that put the North African team in the lead.
Belgium had been struggling to level the score until the powerful Lukaku came on, making an immediate difference by holding off two defenders as the ball deflected off Hany and found its way into the net.
“We witnessed the impact Lukaku had when he entered the game,” said Belgium coach Rudi Garcia.
The striker spent a significant part of the last year sidelined, having only played 69 minutes for Italian club Napoli last season.
However, after returning for Belgium’s two friendlies in June, Lukaku has demonstrated his value.
He netted his 90th international goal during the 2-0 victory over Croatia and provided an assist from the bench in the 5-0 thrashing of Tunisia.
While the goal against Egypt won’t officially count as his, it certainly reflected his significant influence.
Impact Substitute
Lukaku isn’t fit enough yet to start matches after such a long absence, but Belgium will hope he can transition from impact substitute to a starting role soon.
“I’m glad he’s back to fitness because Belgium lacks another player with his qualities,” Garcia remarked to reporters. “We’ll manage his involvement carefully. I know everyone wants him to start, but we’ll approach it step-by-step.”
Though Lukaku may lack some of his previous speed and agility, he brings power and footballing intelligence that allows him to challenge defenders.
Charles De Ketelaere, who started against Egypt, does not possess the same attributes, and Dodi Lukebakio has limited international experience. The other striker in the squad, Matias Fernandez-Pardo, is likely more of a future prospect.
If Belgium can increase Lukaku’s playing time, their chances of clinching a first World Cup title will significantly improve.
They will next face Iran on Sunday, followed by a final group match against New Zealand on June 26. Both teams will be looking for ways to counteract Lukaku’s threat.
