Salah-inspired Egypt storm back to beat New Zealand

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Updated / Monday, 22 Jun 2026 04:19 Mo Salah celebrates after sliding home Egypt's lead goal in Vancouver Egypt stormed back from a goal down to beat New Zealand 3-1 and claim their first-ever World Cup win. After an end-to-end start by both teams, New Zealand opened the scoring in the 14th minute when an unmarked Finn Surman headed a corner home.

With a wealth of possession and momentum behind them, Egypt finally levelled in the 58th minute as Mostafa Ziko capitalised on a superbly weighted cross. Some quickfire passing in New Zealand’s box led to Egypt gaining the lead eight minutes later, with Salah playing a one-two with Ziko before firing a low, driven shot past keeper Max Crocombe.

A third goal all-but sealed the result in the 81st minute, substitute Trezeguet beating a tired-looking New Zealand defence to a corner and heading it into the back of the net. New Zealand had a couple of slim chances to claw one back in the dying minutes, but were ultimately unable to take advantage.