Mohamed Salah delivered a performance befitting his status as Egypt’s greatest modern footballer, inspiring the Pharaohs to a historic 3-1 comeback victory over New Zealand and securing the nation’s first-ever FIFA World Cup win.
The result sees Egypt move to the top of Group G with four points from two matches following their opening 1-1 draw against Belgium. New Zealand remain bottom of the group with one point after earning a draw against Iran in their first fixture.
Egypt’s breakthrough victory comes 92 years after the nation made its first World Cup appearance, marking a landmark moment in the country’s football history.
The opening half belonged largely to New Zealand, whose disciplined and organized approach frustrated Egypt and limited Salah’s influence in attacking areas.
The All Whites looked dangerous from set pieces and nearly opened the scoring early when Callum McCowatt’s glancing header forced a save from the Egyptian goalkeeper.
Their pressure eventually paid off when defender Finn Surman rose highest from a corner kick and powered a header into the net, giving New Zealand a deserved lead before halftime.
Egypt struggled to create meaningful opportunities and entered the break facing another disappointing World Cup result.
The match changed dramatically after the interval as Egypt increased the tempo and began to assert control.
The equalizer arrived in the 58th minute when Mostafa Ziko connected with Mohamed Hany’s cross from the right flank, heading past the goalkeeper to level the score.
The goal energized Egypt and provided the platform for Salah to take center stage.
Just nine minutes later, the Liverpool star combined neatly with Ziko before calmly placing a low finish into the far corner to put Egypt ahead. The strike transformed the atmosphere inside the stadium and shifted momentum firmly in Egypt’s favor.
After a subdued first half, Salah was now dictating the contest with his movement, creativity, and composure.
Salah nearly added a second goal in the 81st minute when a deflected effort sailed over the crossbar. However, the resulting corner produced Egypt’s third and decisive goal.
The Egyptian captain delivered a precise set-piece that was met by substitute Trézéguet, who launched himself forward to head home and put the match beyond New Zealand’s reach.
The goal completed a remarkable second-half turnaround and sealed one of the most significant victories in Egyptian football history.
Salah’s influence was undeniable, scoring the go-ahead goal and providing the assist that secured the result.
“It’s a great achievement for all the players. It’s a great win. It’s a great vibe. The next game is very important,” Salah said after the final whistle.
The victory places Egypt in a commanding position heading into their final group-stage match against Iran.
With Belgium and Iran playing out a goalless draw earlier in the day, Egypt now hold a strong chance of advancing to the knockout rounds for the first time.
