Egypt created a new chapter in their football history after fighting back from a goal down to defeat New Zealand 3-1 at BC Place, Vancouver, securing the Pharaohs’ first-ever FIFA World Cup victory in their fourth appearance at the tournament.
Captain Mohamed Salah once again proved decisive, scoring one goal and providing an assist as Egypt produced a superb second-half comeback to keep their FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout hopes firmly alive.
The victory lifts Egypt into a strong position in the tightly contested Group G ahead of the decisive final round of group-stage fixtures.
New Zealand made the brighter start and stunned Egypt in the 15th minute when Finn Surman powered home a well-placed header from Tim Payne’s corner to hand the Oceania side an early advantage.
The All Whites could have doubled their lead on several occasions during an impressive first half, but Egyptian goalkeeper Mostafa Shobier produced three outstanding saves to keep his side within touching distance.
Egypt’s best opportunity before the break came through Omar Marmoush, whose powerful effort was denied twice by New Zealand goalkeeper Max Crocombe.
The second half saw a completely transformed Egyptian side. The equaliser arrived in the 58th minute, as Mostafa Abdel Raouf “Zizo” rose brilliantly to head home Mohamed Hany’s pinpoint cross from the right, restoring parity and shifting the momentum firmly in Egypt’s favour.
Nine minutes later, Egypt completed the turnaround through their talisman.
A flowing team move ended with Zizo producing a clever backheel pass into Salah’s path inside the penalty area, and the Liverpool forward calmly finished to put the Pharaohs 2-1 ahead.
Egypt sealed a memorable victory in the 82nd minute when substitute Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet” powered home a header from Salah’s perfectly delivered corner to complete an impressive second-half comeback.
Egypt’s dramatic comeback not only delivered the nation’s long-awaited first World Cup victory but also significantly strengthened their hopes of reaching the knockout stages for the first time.
After surviving an early scare thanks to Shobier’s heroics, the Pharaohs displayed resilience, attacking quality and leadership in the second half, with Salah once again proving the difference on football’s biggest stage.
With qualification still in their own hands, Egypt will head into their final Group G encounter full of confidence, knowing another positive result could secure a historic place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32.
Credit Photo : Egypt NT
