Egypt secured a historic 3-1 comeback victory over New Zealand in Group G of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, earning the Pharaohs their first-ever World Cup win.
Captain Mohamed Salah played a decisive role as Egypt recovered from a halftime deficit to claim all three points.
New Zealand took the lead in the 15th minute when defender Finn Surman headed home, putting the All Whites ahead after a strong opening period.
Egypt struggled to create clear chances before the break and went into halftime trailing 1-0.
Egypt responded strongly in the second half. Mostafa Zico equalized in the 58th minute, and nine minutes later Salah combined with Zico in a quick passing move before curling home the go-ahead goal to complete the turnaround.
The victory was sealed in the 81st minute when Salah delivered a corner that was headed in by substitute Mahmoud Trezeguet.
Salah finished the match with one goal and one assist, earning widespread praise and helping Egypt produce one of the most memorable results in the nation’s football history.
With the win, Egypt moved to the top of Group G on four points after previously drawing with Belgium.
New Zealand remained bottom of the group with one point, while Belgium and Iran sit in the middle after their goalless draw.
Salah described the result as “a great achievement,” while coach Hossam Hassan praised the passionate Egyptian support in Vancouver.
