Salah fires Egypt to first-ever World Cup win as Iran leave dignified farewell note in LA

Mohamed Salah scored as Egypt recorded their first-ever World Cup victory, a 3-1 win over New Zealand that sent the Pharaohs to the top of Group G and to the brink of a maiden knockout-stage appearance. Mostafa Zizo and Trezeguet also got on the scoresheet as Egypt made history at the 2026 tournament.

Salah, who left Liverpool at the end of last season, was the catalyst for a performance that exceeded expectations for a side many had written off before a ball was kicked. Egypt now lead Group G and need only avoid a heavy defeat in their final group game to advance to the last 32 for the first time.

Elsewhere in the group stage, Curacao produced a second consecutive upset by holding Uruguay to a draw, having stunned Spain in their opening fixture. The result leaves Curacao on the verge of a remarkable qualification to the knockout rounds.

Spain, meanwhile, emphatically silenced doubters who had questioned their credentials after a goalless draw with Cape Verde. The European champions dismantled Saudi Arabia 4-0 in Atlanta, with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal opening his World Cup account. Spain struck three times in the opening 24 minutes to seize top spot in Group H, though they eased off in the second half with the game long decided.

One of the tournament’s more poignant moments came from Iran, who left a handwritten letter in their SoFi Stadium locker room following a 0-0 draw with Belgium that kept their knockout-stage hopes alive. The note, released by Iran’s football federation, thanked Los Angeles for its hospitality after a tournament in which the squad was required to stay in Tijuana and commute across the border for matches due to US entry restrictions. Several team staff and officials were also banned from entering the country.

“From the ancient Persia of thousands of years ago to the civilized Iran of today, the spirit of Iran remains alive and steadfast,” the letter read. “We came to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honor, and leave with dignity.” The message closed with a call for peace, respect, and friendship among all nations.

Day 12 of the tournament continues with Lionel Messi’s Argentina facing Austria, Kylian Mbappé’s France taking on Iraq, Erling Haaland’s Norway meeting Senegal, and Jordan squaring off against Algeria.