Egypt produced a superb comeback to defeat New Zealand 3-1 in a thrilling Group G encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The All Whites made the brighter start and took the lead in the 15th minute when F. Surman powered a header into the net from T. Payne’s corner.
New Zealand defended well for the remainder of the first half and carried its 1-0 advantage into the break despite Egypt’s growing pressure.
Egypt returned with far greater intensity after halftime and quickly turned the match around. M. Ziko leveled the score with a powerful header in the 59th minute after an excellent cross from M. Hany. Mohamed Salah then completed the comeback in the 67th minute after combining brilliantly with Ziko. Coach Hossam Hassan introduced M. Trézéguet in the 76th minute, and the substitute rewarded that decision by heading home Mohamed Salah’s perfectly delivered corner to extend Egypt’s lead.
Egypt controlled 56% of the possession and managed the closing stages with confidence to secure three valuable points. The Pharaohs now lead Group G with four points, ahead of Iran and Belgium on two points each, while New Zealand remains bottom with one point. The final round of group-stage matches will decide the two teams that advance to the Round of 32.
