Egypt recorded their first-ever World Cup win by defeating New Zealand 3-1 on June 21, 2026, at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, Canada [1, 2, 3]. New Zealand took an early lead when Finn Surman scored with a header from a corner in the 15th minute [1, 2, 4]. Egypt equalised in the 58th minute through Mostafa Zico, who headed in a Mohamed Hany cross [1, 2, 4]. Mohamed Salah then gave Egypt the lead in the 67th minute, curling a left-footed shot after a quick pass exchange with Zico [1, 2, 4]. Salah provided the assist for substitute Mahmoud Trezeguet’s header from a corner to seal the 3-1 victory [1, 2, 4].
The passionate, largely Egyptian-supporting crowd made the match atmosphere feel like a home game for Egypt [1, 2, 3]. Salah, 34, who plays a central attacking role behind striker Omar Marmoush, was pivotal after a slow start to the tournament [2, 5, 3]. He described the energy, saying "It feels like we are playing in Egypt, with all the fans wearing red. Everybody is happy and excited. I do not know what to say - it is a great atmosphere" [3]. New Zealand coach Darren Bazeley praised Salah’s goal, calling it "a goal that I've been watching him score for 10 years" [6].
The victory put Egypt top of Group G with 4 points after two matches, ahead of Belgium and Iran who drew 0-0 earlier [1, 2, 4]. New Zealand remain bottom of the group with one point after a loss and a draw against Iran [2, 3]. Egypt now need only a draw against Iran on June 26, 2026, in Seattle to advance to the last 32 for the first time [1, 4]. Manager Hossam Hassan denied any conflict with Salah before the match, affirming team unity [5, 7].
Mohamed Salah reflected on the historic win: "In years to come we will remember that this was one of the achievements in history. It's a great achievement for all the players. It's a great win. It's a great vibe. The next game is very important" [1]. Egypt will face Iran on June 26 with a chance to secure knockout stage qualification for the first time in their World Cup history [1, 4, 3].
