* Translated by AI

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'First World Cup victory after 92 years of waiting': Egypt defeats New Zealand 3-1, making new history... Salah explodes with 1 goal and 1 assist

Published:

Kim Myeongseok

*This content was translated by AI.

Egyptian national football team celebrating after scoring against New Zealand. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1
Egyptian national football team celebrating after scoring against New Zealand. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1

The Egyptian national football team, competing in the 2026 FIFA North America World Cup, secured their first-ever victory in World Cup finals history.

On the 22nd (Korea time), Egypt achieved a 3-1 comeback victory against New Zealand in the Group G second match of the tournament held at BC Place in Vancouver, Canada.

With this win, Egypt finally broke a winless streak in World Cup finals that had continued since their debut in the 1934 Italy tournament (1 loss), through the 1990 Italy tournament (2 draws, 1 loss), and the 2018 Russia tournament (3 losses). This marks their first victory in the World Cup finals 92 years after their initial appearance.

Following a draw against Belgium in their opening match, Egypt accumulated 4 points (1 win, 1 draw) with this victory, surpassing Iran and Belgium (both with 2 points) to take first place in Group G, significantly increasing their chances of advancing from the group stage for the first time in history.

Egyptian national football team Mohamed Salah (left) celebrating after scoring against New Zealand. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1
Egyptian national football team Mohamed Salah (left) celebrating after scoring against New Zealand. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1

Egypt stumbled early, conceding an opening goal via header to tall defender Finn Sørensen (Portland) in the 15th minute of the first half. However, in the 13th minute of the second half, Mostafa Mohamed (Pyramids) headed in a cross from Mohamed Hany (Al Ahly) to level the score.

Then, in the 22nd minute of the second half, 'ace' Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) scored with a left-footed shot to take the lead. In the 31st minute of the second half, Trezeguet (Al Ahly) headed in Salah's corner kick to seal the victory.

Egypt dominated possession with 56%-44% and outshot New Zealand 19-11, ultimately securing their historic first World Cup victory.

Salah, who recorded 1 goal and 1 assist, was named the match's official most valuable player, achieving a double honor. Notably, he has now recorded attacking points in four consecutive World Cup matches, following his participation in the 2018 FIFA Russia World Cup.

In the Russia tournament, Salah scored one goal each against Russia and Saudi Arabia. In this tournament, he added an assist against Belgium and followed up with 1 goal and 1 assist against New Zealand. His all-time World Cup record stands at 4 matches played, 3 goals, and 2 assists.

Egyptian national football team Mohamed Salah. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1
Egyptian national football team Mohamed Salah. /AFPBBNews=NEWS1

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*This content was translated by AI.

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