Mohamed Salah inspired Egypt to their first victory at a FIFA World Cup as the Pharaohs came from behind to beat New Zealand 3-1 and move top of Group G on Sunday night.
Egypt struggled to find rhythm in the first half, while New Zealand executed their plan with discipline and confidence. New Zealand’s breakthrough came from a corner, with defender Finn Surman escaping Ahmed Fatouh and steering a powerful header into the net.
It was a deserved lead for a side that had looked more organised and more threatening in the opening 45 minutes.
The match changed after the interval as Egypt increased the tempo and pushed New Zealand deeper.
The equaliser arrived in the 58th minute through Mostafa Ziko, who met Mohamed Hany’s cross from the right and headed past the goalkeeper.
That goal lifted Egypt and gave Salah the platform he needed to take control. Nine minutes later, the 34-year-old produced the moment Egyptian supporters had been waiting for.
Breaking forward down the right, Salah exchanged passes with Ziko, before guiding a low finish into the far corner.
It was a goal of calmness and quality, and it shifted the match completely in Egypt’s favour.
Then from a corner, Salah created Egypt’s third goal. His delivery was attacked at the near post by Trézéguet, who threw himself forward to head home and put the result beyond New Zealand.
It was the perfect ending to Egypt’s best spell of the match and a decisive contribution from their biggest player.
“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,” Salah said as he celebrated with his team-mates.
The result gives Egypt four points from two matches after their opening 1-1 draw with Belgium.
The victory moves Egypt to the top of Group G and places them in a strong position before their final group match against Iran.
Latest World Cup results
Spain 4-0 Saudi Arabia
Belgium 0-0 Iran
Uruguay 2-2 Cape Verde
New Zealand 1-3 Egypt.
