Egypt secured its first-ever FIFA World Cup victory on Monday morning, defeating New Zealand 3-1 at BC Place in Vancouver. The result completely altered the standings in Group G, pushing the Pharaohs to the top of the table. The shift in momentum occurred after group rivals Belgium and Iran scoreless draw earlier in the day.
The Egyptian national team erased an early deficit to secure the win. New Zealand struck first in the 15th minute when Finn Surman headed in a corner kick from Tim Payne. The lead held through halftime before Egypt mounted a relentless offensive response.
Key Details
- Mostafa Zico leveled the game for Egypt with a header in the 58th minute.
- Captain Mohamed Salah scored the decisive go-ahead goal in the 67th minute off a back-heel assist from Zico.
- Trézéguet finalized the 3-1 scoreline with a diving header in the 82nd minute.
- The result leaves New Zealand winless heading into their next matchup against Belgium.
Salah’s strike broke the deadlock and officially confirmed the comeback victory. The finish also elevated his career scoring total, marking his 68th international goal for the national team.
Egypt now prepares for a final group stage clash against Iran in Seattle. The team needs only a draw to guarantee advancement to the knockout stages of the 2026 tournament.