Egypt had previously gone winless across their appearances in 1934, 1990 and 2018, but produced a stunning second-half comeback to secure a landmark result and move to the top of the group with four points.
The match got off to the worst possible start for Egypt when New Zealand took the lead in the 15th minute. Finn Surman rose highest from a corner kick to head home and leave the African giants trailing at the interval.
EGYPT SECOND HALF RESPONSE
However, Egypt emerged after the break with renewed energy and quickly turned the contest around.
Mostafa Zico restored parity in the 58th minute with a well-taken header before captain Mohamed Salah completed the comeback less than 10 minutes later, calmly finishing into the bottom corner to spark wild celebrations among the Egyptian supporters.
Substitute Trézéguet added further gloss to the scoreline in the 82nd minute, finishing off a swift counter-attack to wrap up a famous 3-1 victory.
KNOCKOUT DREAMS NOW WITHIN REACH
The result leaves Egypt in an excellent position to qualify for the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 for the first time in the nation’s history.
After opening their campaign with a draw against Belgium, the Pharaohs now have four points from two matches and will head into their final Group G clash against Iran knowing another positive result could seal a historic place in the knockout stages.
For Egypt, the victory represents far more than three points. It is the country’s first-ever FIFA World Cup win and a moment that will be remembered as a major milestone in its football history.
