Egypt recorded their maiden FIFA World Cup victory on Sunday after defeating New Zealand 3-1, boosting their hopes of advancing beyond the group stage for the first time.
The Pharaohs came from behind in the Group G clash in Vancouver, with goals from Mohamed Salah, Mostafa Zico and Trezeguet overturning an early lead given to the Kiwis by Finn Surman.
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The result moves Egypt to the top of Group G with four points, leaving them needing only a draw against Iran in Seattle on Friday to secure a place in the round of 32.
New Zealand made the brighter start and took the lead in the 15th minute when Surman rose highest to power home a header.
Egypt responded positively and restored parity through Zico, who converted a header from Mohamed Hany’s well-delivered cross.
The North Africans completed the turnaround in the 67th minute when Salah combined neatly with Zico before curling a precise left-footed effort into the net.
The Liverpool forward later turned provider, setting up substitute Trezeguet, who sealed the victory with a low header to put the match beyond New Zealand’s reach.
Reflecting on the achievement, Salah described the victory as a landmark moment for Egyptian football.
“Years from now, people will remember this as one of the great accomplishments in our history,” he said.
The Egyptian captain also acknowledged the overwhelming support from fans in attendance, noting that the atmosphere felt as though the team was playing on home soil.
“It felt like we were playing in Egypt. The support was incredible, and it helped create a fantastic atmosphere. It’s a very important victory for us,” he added.
In the other Group G fixture, Belgium and Iran played out a goalless draw, leaving the group finely balanced ahead of the final round of matches.
Belgium will take on New Zealand in Vancouver on Friday, while Egypt face Iran knowing a positive result could send them into the knockout stages for the first time.
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