'Super sub' Lukaku sparks Belgium World Cup selection dilemma over starting role

Egypt had taken the lead through Emam Ashour in the first half, leaving Belgium frustrated and struggling to find a breakthrough. The game looked set to slip away until Lukaku was introduced.

Within just seconds of coming on, Lukaku's strength and persistence changed everything. The striker held off two defenders inside the box, and under pressure, Egypt defender Mohamed Hany turned the ball into his own net to level the match.

"We saw the impact of Lukaku when he came on," Garcia said after the game, highlighting the immediate effect of his substitute.

Lukaku's influence continues to grow after a difficult spell. He spent much of the last year out of the team, playing just 69 minutes for Napoli last season, but has returned to international duty in strong form.

He scored his 90th international goal in Belgium's 2-0 win over Croatia and also provided an assist in the 5-0 victory over Tunisia, again off the bench.

Now, even when he does not score directly, his presence is proving decisive. The goal against Egypt will not be credited to him, but his role in forcing the error was clear.

Belgium are carefully managing his minutes as he builds full match fitness. Garcia made it clear the plan is cautious.

"I'm happy he's recovered, because Belgium doesn't have another player like him," he said. "We'll have to manage him carefully. I know everyone wants to see him start, but we'll take it step-by-step."

Belgium now turn their attention to Iran on Sunday, before facing New Zealand on 26 June. 

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