FIFA 2026: Salah stars as Egypt secure historic first World Cup win, climb to top of Group G

VANCOUVER: Captain Mohamed Salah inspired Egypt to a landmark 3-1 comeback victory over New Zealand on Sunday, guiding the Pharaohs to their first-ever FIFA World Cup win and strengthening their bid for a place in the knockout rounds.

Roared on by a passionate crowd at BC Place, Egypt entered the match as favourites with Salah and Omar Marmoush leading the attack. But despite dominating possession, the Africans were stunned early when New Zealand defender Finn Surman powered home a header from Tim Payne’s corner in the 15th minute, silencing the sea of Egyptian supporters.

Egypt continued to press and finally found a breakthrough shortly before the hour mark when Mostafa Mohamed Zizo rose highest to nod in a cross from Mohamed Hany and restore parity.

The momentum quickly swung in Egypt’s favour. Just nine minutes later, Zico exchanged passes with Salah in a slick attacking move before the Liverpool forward unleashed a powerful left-footed strike to complete the turnaround and send the Egyptian fans into celebration.

With New Zealand struggling to contain the pressure, Egypt sealed the result when Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet met Salah’s curling corner with a superb header to make it 3-1.

The victory lifts Egypt to the top of Group G with four points from two matches after opening their campaign with a draw against Belgium. New Zealand, who also shared the points with Iran in their first outing, remain at the foot of the standings with one point and face an uphill battle to keep their World Cup hopes alive.