Egypt Wins First-Ever World Cup Match After Comeback Over New Zealand

Egypt made history in Vancouver overnight Sunday into Monday, beating New Zealand 3-1 for its first-ever World Cup victory. After drawing 1-1 with Belgium in its opener, Egypt completed a major comeback and briefly moved to the top of Group G, taking a significant step toward the knockout stage.

New Zealand started better and looked sharper and more aggressive early on. The All Whites were rewarded in the 15th minute when Tim Payne sent in a corner and Finn Surman rose above the defense to head in the opening goal past Mostafa Shobeir. Egypt looked stunned, but gradually settled. Omar Marmoush tested Max Crocombe from distance and Mohamed Salah curled a free kick just wide, though Hossam Hassan's side went into halftime behind. Egypt also lost Hamdy Fathi to injury before the break.

The second half belonged to Egypt. The team raised its tempo and pressure, and in the 58th minute Mohamed Hany delivered a precise cross that allowed Mostafa Zizo to head in the equalizer from close range despite a touch by the goalkeeper. Nine minutes later, Zizo turned provider, flicking the ball with his heel inside the box for Salah, who struck into the corner in the 67th minute to complete the turnaround. It was Salah's third World Cup goal, making him Egypt's all-time top scorer in the tournament.

Egypt sealed the win in the 82nd minute when Salah whipped in a corner and substitute Trezeguet headed home the third goal. The result left Egypt on four points from two matches. In the final round against Iran on June 27 in Seattle, Egypt can clinch advancement with a draw. New Zealand, which still impressed despite the loss, must beat Belgium on June 27 in Vancouver to stay alive.