Egypt, with first-ever World Cup win, sits on brink of advancing

Monday, June 22, 2026

Egypt earned their first-ever World Cup win by defeating New Zealand 3-1, with Mohamed Salah scoring the decisive goal to move them to the top of Group G. This victory puts Egypt in a strong position to advance to the knockout stage if they secure at least a draw against Iran in their upcoming match.

Egypt secured its first-ever victory at the FIFA World Cup with a 3-1 win over New Zealand on Wednesday at BC Place in Vancouver. Mohamed Salah scored the go-ahead goal in the 67th minute, marking his 68th international goal and bringing the Pharaohs closer to advancing from Group G. Salah, who was substituted in the 85th minute to a standing ovation, celebrated energetically before teammates surrounded him, electrifying the crowd dressed predominantly in red.

The win moves Egypt to the top of Group G standings, but qualification for the knockout stage remains uncertain. The team faces a crucial match against Iran on Friday in Seattle, where a draw or better will secure their progression.

This marks Egypt’s fourth appearance in the World Cup, having missed the previous tournament in Qatar. Salah previously scored twice in the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

New Zealand took an early lead when defender Finn Surman scored with a header off a Tim Payne corner in the 15th minute. Surman, who plays for the Portland Timbers in Major League Soccer, recorded his third international goal with the strike.

Egypt responded steadily, with a near miss in the 35th minute when Omar Marmoush set up Salah on a free kick that grazed the side netting. After halftime, Egypt increased their attacking intensity. Mostafa Zico equalized in the 58th minute with a header that managed to beat New Zealand goalkeeper Max Crocombe despite the keeper’s attempt to block it. Zico’s celebration included urging the crowd to raise their voices.

Salah then put Egypt ahead with a composed finish in the 67th minute, taking a back-heel pass from Zico. The goal brought Salah within one goal of matching the national team’s all-time top scorer, coach Hossam Hassan. Trezeguet sealed the victory with a diving header in the 82nd minute.

Egypt’s Hamdy Fathy was substituted late in the first half due to an apparent injury sustained off the ball and was replaced by Ramy Rabia.

Elsewhere in Group G, Iran and Belgium played to a 0-0 draw earlier at SoFi Stadium, leaving both teams with two draws in the tournament so far. New Zealand is scheduled to return to Vancouver on Friday to face Belgium.