Egypt Clinches Historic First World Cup Victory Against New Zealand

Egypt made history at the World Cup by defeating New Zealand 3-1, claiming their first-ever victory in the competition after three previous participations (1934, 1990, 2018) that all ended without success.

Little suggested such an outcome was coming. Finn Surman had opened the scoring for the All Whites as early as the 15th minute, and Egypt looked pale throughout the first half. The interval changed everything. Transformed after the restart, Hossam Hassan’s side reversed the situation in twenty-four minutes: Mostapha Ziko (58’), Mohamed Salah (67’) and Mahmoud Trezeguet (82’) all found the back of the net in succession to deliver their nation a historic triumph.

This result puts Egypt in a strong position in a particularly wide-open Group G. With four points, the Pharaohs lead Iran and Belgium by two — who had held Egypt to a 1-1 draw six days earlier — while New Zealand sit bottom with just one point. A draw against Iran would be enough for Egypt to secure qualification for the round of 16.

Mohamed Salah, who scored and provided an assist, harbours even loftier ambitions. “We can make history by finishing first in the group, and in the years to come you will remember this as one of our greatest achievements. We just have to enjoy today, enjoy tomorrow, then focus on the next match,” he said after the match.