The 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA has delivered a unique surprise. The latest matchday was marked by absolute equilibrium: no team managed to secure a full victory. For the first time since 1958, all matches on the day ended either 0:0 or with a minimal advantage that failed to secure a win. The tournament favorites faced fierce resistance and were unable to capitalize on their opportunities.
Belgium and Egypt: a shock start
In Group G, events unfolded in Seattle at Lumen Field. The Belgian national team, known as the "Red Devils", drew with Egypt. The African side started the match with unexpected aggression. As early as the 19th minute, Liverpool star Mohamed Salah made a precise pass to Emam Ashour. From outside the box, he unleashed a powerful shot into the bottom left corner, leaving goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois watching the ball hit the net.
After the break, the Belgians went on the offensive. Kevin De Bruyne hit the post with a dangerous free-kick. The balance was tipped by the introduction of Romelu Lukaku and a defensive error by the opposition. In the 66th minute, Egyptian defender Mohamed Hany accidentally deflected a cross from Thomas Meunier into his own net. Despite the goal, the Belgians failed to secure all three points.
This result added another draw to Egypt's tally. Notably, throughout their history at the World Cup, the Egyptians have never won a match; their record now stands at 5 losses and 3 draws.
Battle in Group G: Iran vs New Zealand
The other match in Group G turned into a real spectacle. The Iranian team, whose participation in the tournament had long been in question due to organizational and political complexities, demonstrated incredible character. Their opponent was New Zealand, returning to the World Cup for the first time since 2010.
The New Zealanders took the lead twice thanks to a brace from Elijah Just, assisted both times by Chris Wood. However, the Iranians found the strength to equalize on both occasions, resulting in a draw. Thanks to this result, the Oceanian representatives extended their unique streak of draws in World Cup finals to four consecutive matches.
Group H: Uruguay on the brink of defeat
In Group H, drama unfolded at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The Uruguayan national team, one of South America's main favorites under Marcelo Bielsa, narrowly avoided defeat to Saudi Arabia.
The Saudis took the lead at the end of the first half. In the 41st minute, following a corner kick, goalkeeper Fernando Muslera parried the ball in front of him, but Al-Nassr defender Abdulrahman Al-Amri was quickest to finish it off in the net.
The Uruguayans responded with a real assault. They launched an incredible 27 shots on goal during the match, 22 of which came in the second half. Manuel Ugarte hit the far post, but the decisive goal was scored only in the 80th minute. Maximiliano Araújo managed to score on the rebound, saving the favorites from defeat. In stoppage time, Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais made several fantastic saves against Federico Valverde and Nicolás De La Cruz, holding onto a prestigious point.
Historic day summary
In the other Group H match, European football leaders Spain sensationally drew 0:0 with tournament debutants Cape Verde.
Thus, all four matches of the matchday ended in a draw. This is the first time since 1958 and only the second time in World Cup history. It is worth noting that 68 years ago, there were eight such matches, but once again the tournament showed that there is no room for complacency on the pitch: even the strongest teams can go without a victory.