Join on WhatsApp
Join on Telegram
Rabat – Egypt finally wrote a new chapter in its World Cup history on Sunday night, coming from behind to defeat New Zealand 3-1 and secure the Pharaohs’ first-ever victory at football’s biggest tournament.
Ninety-two years after their first World Cup appearance in 1934, Egypt celebrated a landmark moment driven by a second-half resurgence and another decisive performance from captain Mohamed Salah.
The Pharaohs struggled to impose themselves during the opening half and fell behind after New Zealand defender Finn Suman powered in a header from a corner. But Egypt returned from halftime with far greater urgency, pressing higher and moving all the quicker through the final third.
Mostafa Ziko brought Egypt level in the 58th minute after meeting Mohamed Hany’s cross, before Salah completed the comeback nine minutes later with a composed finish following a quick exchange with Ziko.
Trézéguet added a third late in the match from a corner, sealing a victory that sparked emotional celebrations among Egyptian supporters inside the stadium.
Speaking after the game, Egypt coach Hossam Hassan said the team needed time to build confidence at the World Cup level.
“To the Egyptian football community, we needed time to build confidence and capitalize on our strengths,” Hassan said after the match.
The coach also praised Salah’s display, suggesting the Liverpool star is now being used in a role that better suits his qualities.
Egypt, who opened their campaign with a draw against Belgium, now sit top of Group G with four points from two matches and move a step closer to qualification for the knockout stage
