Mohamed Salah scored amid controversy as Egypt rallied from behind to defeat New Zealand 3-1, securing a landmark World Cup win in their Group G encounter.
New Zealand struck first, with defender Finn Surman rising above the defense to head home and give the All Whites an early lead. Egypt gradually gained control and drew level in the 58th minute, when Mostafa Ziko capped a period of sustained pressure with a crucial equalizer.
The match’s pivotal moment arrived soon after Ben Old entered for New Zealand. Moments after replacing Callum McCowatt, Old suffered a wardrobe malfunction near the Egyptian penalty area, forcing him off the field to change his torn shorts and temporarily reducing New Zealand to ten men. Egypt quickly capitalized, as Salah surged into the box and finished clinically into the bottom corner to put his team in front.
Salah’s goal sparked immediate controversy, with New Zealand’s players and fans arguing the team was unfairly disadvantaged with Old still off the pitch. Egypt sealed the victory late on through Trezeguet, who converted a third goal to ensure a memorable triumph.
The result lifts Egypt to the top of Group G with four points, ahead of Belgium and Iran, who both have two. New Zealand, with just one point, remain at risk. Egypt now head into their final group game knowing that a draw against Iran could secure a spot in the knockout stage.
