Egypt rallies to beat New Zealand 3-1 for first World Cup win and Group G lead
Egypt recovered from a 1-0 deficit to beat New Zealand 3-1 in Vancouver, claiming their first ever World Cup victory and climbing to the top of Group G after Belgium and Iran played a goalless draw in Los Angeles.
Egypt overcomes early shock to secure historic win
Finn Surman put New Zealand ahead in the 15th minute, powering a header from Tim Payne's corner. Egypt struggled to create clear chances until Mostafa Zico headed an equalizer in the 58th minute. Mohamed Salah then gave Egypt the lead with a composed finish in the 67th minute, his third goal in a World Cup. Mahmoud Trezeguet sealed the win with a header from Salah's corner in the 82nd minute. The 3-1 victory is Egypt's first in four World Cup appearances (three draws and five defeats previously).
It felt like playing at home in Egypt. A superb victory and the atmosphere was great.
- 15' Finn Surman header gives New Zealand the lead
- 58' Mostafa Zico equalises for Egypt with a header
- 67' Mohamed Salah puts Egypt ahead with a low shot
- 82' Mahmoud Trezeguet seals the win from a Salah corner
Group G standings and Belgium's dilemma
Egypt now leads Group G with four points, two clear of Iran and Belgium who drew 0-0 in Los Angeles. New Zealand remains on one point. Belgium must beat New Zealand in Vancouver on Friday and hope for a favourable result in the Egypt-Iran clash to reach the last 16. The Red Devils could finish first only if they win by a large margin and Egypt fails to beat Iran, or they could end second or third depending on permutations.
- Egypt
- 4
- Iran
- 2
- Belgium
- 2
- New Zealand
- 1
Salah and teammates deliver under pressure
The Egyptian talisman, who now has 68 international goals, was instrumental after the break. Zico's headed equaliser sparked the comeback, and Salah's low shot past Conroy Crocombe put Egypt in front. Trezeguet's late header provided a two-goal cushion. Coach Rui Vitória's side showed resilience after a disjointed first half.
Group H remains wide open
Elsewhere, Spain and Uruguay top Group H but both face a tight final matchday. Uruguay must avoid defeat against Spain to be certain of progression, while Cape Verde can still advance by beating Saudi Arabia if other results go their way. The Spanish could even drop to third if they lose and Cape Verde win.
What's next for the group
Egypt meets Iran on Friday in Seattle, where a draw would suffice to guarantee a place in the round of 16. Belgium faces New Zealand at BC Place later that day. New Zealand retains a slim chance of qualifying by beating Belgium.
