Mohamed Salah starred with a goal and an assist as Egypt made history on Monday, claiming their first-ever World Cup victory with a 3-1 win over New Zealand at BC Place Vancouver.
Despite being one of Africa’s most successful sides, the Pharaohs had never won a game on the global stage, and that record continued in their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener where they drew 1-1 with Belgium.
However, Salah inspired the nation to a remarkable result as they came from behind to defeat the All Whites, moving them to the top of Group G.
New Zealand opened the scoring in the 15th minute through Finn Surman who powered a header past Mostafa Ahmed Shobeir to make it 1-0. But after that, Darren Bazeley’s side were unable to convert their chances, allowing Egypt build momentum.
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In the 58th minute, the Pharaohs leveled the scoreline as Mohamed Hany’s cross was met by the head of Mostafa Ziko, making it 1-1. Less than 10 minutes later, Ziko provided an assist, this time for Salah to give Egypt a 2-1 lead, completing the comeback.
Following an incredible impact, Ziko was substituted in the 76th minute and replaced by Hamza Abdelkarim while Trezeguet came on for Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush.
Six minutes after his introduction, Trezeguet sealed Egypt’s win with a beautiful header after a superb corner-kick delivery from Salah, making it 3-1. It could have been four in added time, but goalkeeper Max Crocombe made a key block to deny substitute Zizo.
The result means that Egypt are top of Group G with four points while New Zealand remain bottom with one point. Egypt face Iran in their final group game on Saturday, June 27 while New Zealand take on Belgium at the same time.
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