By defeating New Zealand 3-1 in Vancouver, Egypt got their first World Cup triumph ever. Africa’s fourth victory in the 2026 tournament, this one propelled Egypt to the top of Group G.

Finn Sirman’s 15th-minute headed corner kick goal set Egypt 1-0 down in the first half. Egypt battled tenaciously in the second half to guarantee the victory and raise their chances of making it to the knockout rounds for the first time in their 92-year World Cup history.

Eight minutes into the second half, most of Mostafa Zico’s Egyptian teammates tied the score. Mohamed Salah, their captain and star player, then scored a goal after a one-two pass with a colleague, placing the ball with his preferred left foot in the corner of the net. Salah became Egypt’s all-time top goalscorer in World Cup history with three goals with this aim.

Trézégue’s low header from another corner kick helped his side to win. This victory, following their prior 1-1 tie with Belgium, left Egypt four points from two games. Earlier in the day, Belgium tied goalless with Iran and had a player, Nathan Ngoy, dismissed in the 67th minute.

Having played two games and drawn twice, Belgium and Iran have not won any matches. Iran ranks second in goal difference.e New Zealand is last with one point.

Mohamed Salah gave Egypt a significant moment. In addition to scoring the game-winning goal New Zealand, the captain was the first Egyptian to compete in two World Cups.

This win is notable since it follows Egypt’s World Cup debut by 92 years and 25 days. Given that Iran and Belgium drew earlier, Egypt now leads Group G with a two-point advantage heading into the final group stage match.

Important Statistic: At 34 years and 6 days, Mohamed Salah surpassed Magdy Abdelghany, who was 30 years and 320 days old when he scored against the Netherlands in 1990 to become the oldest player to score for Egypt.