Egypt rally past New Zealand 3-1 for first World Cup win

Egypt recorded the first FIFA World Cup victory in the country’s history on June 21, 2026, coming from behind to beat New Zealand 3-1 at BC Place in Vancouver in Group G.

New Zealand took a 1-0 lead in the 15th minute when Finn Surman headed in from a set piece, and the All Whites carried that advantage into half-time.

Egypt turned the match after the interval, scoring three times to move to the top of Group G. Mostafa Zico levelled in the 58th minute, Mohamed Salah put Egypt in front in the 67th, and Trezeguet added a late third in the 82nd.

Officials said goalkeepers Mostafa Shoubir and Max Crocombe made four saves each as Egypt’s pressure increased significantly in the second half.

The win left New Zealand on one point after two matches (0-1-1). Egypt moved into first place in the group with one match remaining in the group stage.

How Egypt’s second-half pressure paid off

Egypt started the second half with greater control and a higher tempo, pinning New Zealand deeper and creating more frequent chances. The equaliser arrived in the 58th minute, with Zico finding the net to bring Egypt back level.

Nine minutes later, Salah completed the turnaround with Egypt’s second goal, giving the Pharaohs a 2-1 lead and shifting the momentum decisively. New Zealand’s first-half set-piece threat did not translate into sustained attacking opportunities after the break.

Trezeguet’s goal in the 82nd minute, Egypt’s third of the night, provided late security and completed the comeback in Vancouver.

Group G picture with one round to play

Egypt’s win was described as the first decisive result in Group G after an opening run of draws. Belgium and Iran played out a 0-0 draw earlier on Sunday, leaving the standings tight heading into the final matchday.

Egypt will close the group stage against Iran on Friday, while New Zealand face Belgium the same day. The final fixtures will determine which teams advance from Group G to the knockout phase.

New Zealand remain in search of the nation’s first World Cup win, while Egypt’s comeback has strengthened its position in the group going into the last round.