Egypt stage comeback to beat New Zealand 3–1, boost knockout hopes
New Zealand took an early lead in the 15th minute when Finn Surman scored with a powerful header, giving his side a 1–0 advantage at halftime.
KATHMANDU: Egypt staged a stunning second-half comeback to defeat New Zealand 3–1 in a Group G clash of the FIFA World Cup at BC Place, Vancouver, Canada.
New Zealand took an early lead in the 15th minute when Finn Surman scored with a powerful header, giving his side a 1–0 advantage at halftime.
However, Egypt completely turned the game around after the break. Mostafa Mohamed equalised in the 58th minute to make it 1–1, shifting the momentum firmly in Egypt’s favour.
Mohamed Salah then put Egypt ahead in the 67th minute with a clinical finish, before Trezeguet sealed the victory in the 82nd minute, heading home from a Salah corner to make it 3–1.
With this result, Egypt secured their first-ever win in FIFA World Cup history and strengthened their chances of reaching the knockout stage for the first time.
New Zealand, meanwhile, suffered a second consecutive defeat after losing leads in both matches.
Egypt will face Iran in their final group game, where a victory could secure them the top spot in the group. Salah was named Player of the Match for his decisive performance.
