Egypt secured their first-ever World Cup victory after a second-half comeback inspired by Mohamed Salah.
Egypt defeated New Zealand 3-1 in Group G, recording the first World Cup win in the nation’s history and taking a major step towards the knockout stage.
New Zealand made a bright start and took the lead in the 15th minute when Finn Surman headed home from a Tim Payne corner.
However, Egypt turned the game around after the break following tactical adjustments from coach Hossam Hassan.
Mostafa Zico equalised in the 58th minute with a header from Mohamed Hany’s cross. Mohamed Salah then put Egypt ahead after combining with Zico before calmly finishing into the bottom corner.
Salah completed his influential performance by delivering a corner that substitute Trezeguet headed home in the 82nd minute to seal the victory.
The result moves Egypt to the top of Group G and leaves them on the brink of a historic first qualification for the World Cup knockout stage.
Egypt, appearing in their fourth World Cup and first featured in the tournament in 1934, can secure top spot in the group with a win over Iran in their final match.
Mohamed Salah’s leadership and quality helped Egypt make history as the Pharaohs moved closer to a place in the World Cup last 32.
