Mohamed Salah inspired Egypt to their first victory at a FIFA World Cup as the Pharaohs came from behind to beat New Zealand 3-1 and move top of Group G on Sunday.
Egypt trailed at half-time after Finn Surman’s powerful header gave New Zealand a deserved lead from a corner. But Hossam Hassan’s side transformed the match after the break, with Mostafa Ziko equalising before Salah put Egypt ahead with a composed finish in the 67th minute.
Substitute Trézéguet then sealed the historic win with a diving header from Salah’s corner, completing a second-half performance that could change the direction of Egypt’s tournament.
Egypt have four points from two matches
The result gives Egypt four points from two matches after their opening 1-1 draw with Belgium. New Zealand, who drew 2-2 with Iran in their first match, remain bottom of the group with one point.
Belgium’s 0-0 draw with Iran earlier on Sunday means Egypt now have a strong chance of reaching the knockout stage. Egypt struggled to find rhythm in the first half, while New Zealand executed their plan with discipline and confidence.
The All Whites were direct when they needed to be, but also kept possession well enough to frustrate Egypt and prevent Salah from influencing the game. Callum McCowatt had an early chance when his glancing header forced a save, a warning Egypt failed to fully heed.
New Zealand’s breakthrough came from a corner, with defender Finn Surman escaping Ahmed Fatouh and steering a powerful header into the net.
