The Pharaohs secures first-ever World Cup win against New Zealand
(Video) History made in Vancouver: Egypt break a historic World Cup drought with a 3-1 comeback
22.06.26
FT
World Cup
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Egypt faced New Zealand in a crucial World Cup clash at Vancouver’s BC Place fighting to secure a vital group-stage victory.
Early shock for the African giants
The match did not start according to plan for Hossam Hassan’s men. New Zealand struck first in the 15th minute when defender Finn Surman escaped his marker to head home from a corner kick.
Egypt struggled to find their rhythm in the opening 45 minutes compounding their defensive issues when Hamdi Fathi suffered an early injury forcing Rami Rabia into the match.
Despite close efforts from Omar Marmoush & Mohamed Salah, the All Whites held their lead until the break.
The tactical turnaround
Whatever Hassan said at halftime completely transformed the team. Operating with over 60% possession, Egypt looked far more aggressive and direct in the final third.
The breakthrough came in the 59th minute when right-back Mohamed Hany delivered an accurate cross allowing Mostafa Ziko to level the score with a clinical header. Just 8 minute later, Mohamed Salah stepped up to show his class drilling a low, precise shot into the bottom corner to put the Pharaohs ahead.
Putting the game to bed
New Zealand tried to respond but Egypt put the result beyond doubt in the 82nd minute. Salah turned provider delivering a perfectly weighted corner that substitute Mahmoud Trezeguet power-headed past Max Crocombe securing a deserved 3-1 victory.
Breaking a historical World Cup curse
This historic win represents Egypt’s first-ever victory in a World Cup tournament having failed to pick up a single win during their appearances in 1934, 1990 and 2018.
Following a scoreless draw between Belgium and Iran in the group’s other fixture, Egypt now sits comfortably at the top of Group G with four points.
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