Egypt finally celebrated their first FIFA World Cup victory after defeating New Zealand 3–1 in a spirited Group G encounter on Sunday night, with captain Mohamed Salah delivering a decisive performance to inspire a second-half turnaround.
The win marks a historic moment for the Pharaohs, ending a long wait for a World Cup triumph and strengthening their chances of progressing to the knockout stage. After drawing 1–1 with Belgium in their opening match, Egypt now sit on four points from two games.
New Zealand began the match on the front foot and looked the more composed side in the opening half. Their pressing and organisation limited Egypt’s attacking rhythm and kept Salah quiet for much of the first period.
The All Whites were rewarded for their bright start when Finn Surman rose unmarked from a corner to head home the opening goal, giving New Zealand a deserved lead before half-time. Egypt, by contrast, struggled to create clear chances and went into the break under pressure.
The second half, however, brought a different Egypt side. They increased the tempo, pushed higher up the pitch, and began to test the New Zealand defence more consistently. The pressure paid off in the 58th minute when Mostafa Ziko met a well-delivered cross from Mohamed Hany and powered in the equaliser.
From that moment, Egypt took control of the match. Just nine minutes later, Salah produced a moment of quality, linking up neatly on the right before finishing calmly into the far corner to put Egypt ahead 2–1.
As New Zealand pushed forward in search of a response, Egypt remained dangerous on the counter and from set pieces. Salah nearly added a second late on, but his deflected effort went just over the bar.
From the resulting corner, Egypt sealed the victory. Salah delivered a precise ball into the box, which substitute Trézéguet converted with a strong header to make it 3–1 and secure all three points.
The Egyptian captain finished the match with a goal and an assist, playing a central role in turning the game around and guiding his side to a landmark win.
Speaking after the match, Salah praised his teammates and looked ahead to their final group fixture.
“It’s a great achievement for all the players. It’s a great win. It’s a great feeling. The next game is very important,” he said.
The result moves Egypt to the top of Group G after Belgium and Iran played out a goalless draw earlier in the day. With four points from two matches, Egypt are now well positioned ahead of their final group game against Iran.
