Egypt 3-1 New Zealand: Salah leads Pharaohs to historic first World Cup win
Vancouver, Canada – June 21, 2026
Egypt wrote history at BC Place as Mohamed Salah inspired a 3-1 comeback win over New Zealand, ending a 92-year wait for their first FIFA World Cup victory.
All Whites strike first
The Oceania side came out firing in front of their fans. Sarpreet Singh and Elijah just tested Egypt early, then Finn Surman broke the deadlock in the 15th minute. The defender powered home a header from a corner to give New Zealand a deserved 1-0 lead.
Pharaohs respond after break
Egypt pushed for an equalizer before half-time. Salah and Emam Ashour both came close, but Max Crocombe stood firm in the New Zealand goal. The Liverpool captain was denied seconds after the restart again, with Crocombe keeping out his effort.
New Zealand looked set to double their advantage when Callum McCowatt’s flicked header forced a brilliant stop from Egypt keeper Mostafa Shobeir. That save proved crucial.
Zico, Salah, Trezeguet complete turnaround
Momentum shifted in the 58th minute. Mostafa Zico rose highest to meet a cross and nodded Egypt level with a free header. The goal lifted Hossam Hassan’s side and silenced the crowd.
Nine minutes later, Salah delivered the moment. After a slick team move, the 33-year-old guided a low shot into the corner to make it 2-1. Celebrations erupted as the Pharaohs took control.
Trezeguet finished the job with eight minutes left. He added a third to seal the 3-1 scoreline and confirm Egypt’s first World Cup win since their tournament debut 92 years and 25 days ago.
What it means
The result gives Egypt their first 3 points of World Cup 2026 and renews belief in their knockout stage hopes. New Zealand will be left to rue missed chances, but can take positives from their bright start.
Final score: New Zealand 1-3 Egypt
New Zealand scorer: Finn Surman 15’
Egypt scorers: Mostafa Zico 58’, Mohamed Salah 67’, Trezeguet 82’
Man of the Match: Mohamed Salah
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