Former Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah inspired Egypt to a historic milestone at the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the Pharaohs recorded their first-ever victory in the tournament with a 3-1 comeback win over New Zealand on Sunday.
The result ended a 92-year wait for a World Cup victory and moved Egypt to the top of Group G, strengthening their chances of advancing to the knockout stage.
New Zealand made a bright start to the contest and took the lead through defender Finn Surman, who capitalised on a well-worked set-piece to put the All Whites ahead.
However, Egypt produced a dominant second-half performance to turn the game around. Salah and Mostafa Zico each contributed a goal and an assist as the North Africans overturned a 1-0 halftime deficit.
Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet added Egypt’s third goal to complete the comeback and secure all three points.
The victory leaves Egypt top of Group G with four points from two matches, following their opening 1-1 draw against Belgium. New Zealand, who played out a 2-2 draw with Iran in their first match, remain bottom of the group with one point.
Speaking after the match, Salah described the result as a landmark achievement for the team.
“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,” he said.
The triumph marks Egypt’s first World Cup win since making their tournament debut in 1934, ending a decades-long wait for a victory on football’s biggest stage.