- 2026 FIFA World Cup: Salah Inspires Egypt to Historic First World Cup Victory
Egypt secured their first-ever FIFA World Cup victory after coming from behind to defeat New Zealand 3-1 in a thrilling Group G encounter on Sunday night, with captain Mohamed Salah producing a match-winning display to guide the Pharaohs to the top of the standings.
The historic triumph ended a 92-year wait for a World Cup win and put Egypt in a strong position to qualify for the knockout stage. Having drawn 1-1 with Belgium in their opening match, the Pharaohs now sit on four points from two games.
Egypt endured a difficult opening half as New Zealand looked the more organized and dangerous side. The All Whites pressed effectively, controlled possession in key areas, and limited Salah’s influence on the game.
An early warning came when Callum McCowatt forced a save with a glancing header, but Egypt failed to respond. New Zealand eventually took a deserved lead from a set piece when defender Finn Surman escaped his marker and powered a header into the net from a corner kick.
The goal capped an impressive first-half performance from New Zealand, who appeared comfortable and confident against an Egypt side struggling to create clear opportunities.
At the break, Egypt faced the prospect of another disappointing World Cup result.
The second half told a completely different story. Egypt returned with greater urgency and began to push New Zealand deeper into their own half. Their persistence paid off in the 58th minute when Mostafa Ziko met a precise cross from Mohamed Hany and headed home the equaliser.
The goal transformed the contest and energized both the Egyptian players and their supporters.
Nine minutes later, Salah delivered the decisive moment. The Liverpool legend combined brilliantly with Ziko on the right flank before calmly slotting a low shot into the far corner to give Egypt a 2-1 advantage.
It was a goal that showcased the quality and composure that have made Salah one of Africa’s greatest footballers, and it shifted momentum firmly in Egypt’s favour.
Salah continued to torment the New Zealand defence and nearly added a second goal in the closing stages when a deflected effort flew narrowly over the crossbar.
However, the resulting corner produced Egypt’s third goal. Salah’s delivery was met by substitute Trézéguet, who launched himself forward to head the ball into the net and put the result beyond doubt.
The goal sealed a memorable comeback victory and ensured Salah finished the night with both a goal and an assist.
Speaking after the match, the Egyptian captain praised his teammates while emphasizing the importance of their final group fixture.
“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.
The victory moves Egypt to the summit of Group G following Belgium’s goalless draw with Iran earlier in the day.
With four points from two matches, the Pharaohs are now well placed to advance to the knockout rounds ahead of their final group-stage clash against Iran..
