Tearful Egypt boss Hassan takes dig at Salah's misuse after historic World Cup win over New Zealand

Egypt recorded their first victory in World Cup history with a 3-1 comeback win over New Zealand in Vancouver, Canada, as Mohamed Salah helped turn the game on its head and departing head coach Hossam Hassan broke down in tears during his post-match interview — before appearing to take a pointed dig at those who had mismanaged the Liverpool icon.

Finn Surman gave New Zealand the lead with a first-half header, leaving Egypt with work to do at the break. The Pharaohs responded emphatically in the second period, with Ziko levelling before the hour mark and then combining with Salah to complete the turnaround. Trezeguet headed home late on to seal the result and send the Egypt bench streaming onto the pitch in jubilant scenes.

Salah’s goal took him to within one of equalling Hassan’s all-time Egypt scoring record of 69 goals, and the 32-year-old’s influence extended beyond his own strike as he played a direct role in the third.

Speaking pitchside after the final whistle, a visibly emotional Hassan struggled to compose himself. “I am very happy with this victory, and I thank the entire Egyptian people for their support,” he said. “This victory is dedicated to all Egyptians, both men and women. I am extremely happy, and my feelings are similar to those of millions of Egyptians after this win.”

“We were successful in the match and put in a great effort, especially after the first half, which we ended with a goal against us. However, our performance improved, and we managed to win in the second half. I thank all the players, the technical and administrative staff. Everyone put in great effort to achieve the Egyptians’ dream in the World Cup.”

In subsequent comments to reporters, Hassan appeared to take aim at coaches who had failed to get the best from Salah — a thinly veiled reference to the forward’s difficult final season at Liverpool under Arne Slot, during which he was deployed in a withdrawn central role behind Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush in a 4-2-3-1 formation.

Salah will officially become a free agent when the World Cup knockout rounds begin next month, having agreed with Liverpool to terminate his contract early following a well-documented falling-out with Slot during the Dutchman’s debut campaign at Anfield. Hassan appeared to take credit for restoring the forward to a role that suits him, with Salah’s performance against New Zealand underlining that his quality at the highest level remains undiminished.