Egypt Claims Historic 3-1 World Cup Comeback Over New Zealand

Egypt roared back from a goal down to defeat New Zealand 3-1 at BC Place on Sunday, securing a vital victory in FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G. The result puts the Pharaohs in a commanding position to qualify, while leaving the All Whites facing a must-win final fixture.

New Zealand enjoyed a dream start in the 15th minute when Finn Surman met Tim Payne's precise corner with a thunderous header to open the scoring. The Kiwis looked defensively organized and held their narrow lead until the interval.

However, Egypt emerged for the second half with heightened intensity. In the 59th minute, Mostafa Ziko leveled the match by meeting a beautiful Mohamed Hany cross to head past goalkeeper Max Crocombe. Capitalizing on their momentum, captain Mohamed Salah put Egypt ahead just eight minutes later, slotting home a clinical finish to make it 2-1.

New Zealand pushed forward but left gaps at the back. Egypt sealed the three points in the 82nd minute when substitute Trezeguet escaped his marker to convert another clinical effort.The defeat leaves New Zealand needing a victory against Belgium to keep their knockout hopes alive, while Egypt shifts focus to their next clash against Iran.