Vancouver: Egypt finally broke their long-standing World Cup curse as Mohamed Salah produced a dazzling performance, scoring one goal and registering two assists in a commanding 3-1 victory over New Zealand in Group G at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This result marks Egypt’s first-ever win in the tournament’s history, ending years of heartbreak on football’s biggest stage.
The match, played in a vibrant atmosphere with strong Egyptian support, started poorly for the North Africans. New Zealand, known for their physicality and set-piece threat, took a surprise lead in the 15th minute. Defender Finn Surman rose majestically above the Egyptian defense to head home a well-delivered cross, sending shockwaves through the Egyptian camp.
Despite the early setback, Egypt responded with characteristic resilience. They controlled possession and created several half-chances but were frustrated by a resolute New Zealand defense and some wasteful finishing, going into the break trailing 1-0.
The second half belonged entirely to the Pharaohs. The equalizer arrived in the 58th minute through Mustafa Zico — affectionately nicknamed after the Brazilian maestro Zico — who timed his leap perfectly to meet a pinpoint cross from right-back Mohamed Hany and powered a header into the net. The momentum had decisively shifted.
Nine minutes later, star man Mohamed Salah took center stage. He combined brilliantly with Zico in a quick one-two exchange inside the box before calmly finishing past the goalkeeper to put Egypt 2-1 ahead. The Liverpool forward’s movement, vision, and clinical edge were on full display throughout the evening.
Speaking after the match, Salah reflected on the significance of the occasion: “In years to come, we will remember that this was one of the achievements in history. And it feels like we are playing in Egypt.”
The win was made even sweeter as Belgium and Iran played out a 0-0 draw in the earlier fixture. Egypt now sit atop Group G with three points, though qualification for the knockout stages is not yet guaranteed. They face a decisive final group game against Iran, where a positive result would likely secure their progression.
This victory represents far more than three points for Egyptian football. After multiple group-stage exits in previous tournaments, this result brings immense pride to a football-mad nation and validates the team’s preparation and belief under their coaching staff. With Salah leading the charge alongside emerging talents like Zico and Trezeguet, Egypt now dare to dream of going deeper into the competition.
Group G Table (as of matchday 2)
Egypt – 3 points
Belgium – 1 point
Iran – 1 point
New Zealand – 0 points
Egypt will now turn their focus to the crucial clash against Iran, hoping to write another chapter in what is already becoming a memorable campaign.