Liverpool star Mohamed Salah netted his first goal of the tournament as Egypt achieved their maiden World Cup win, a 3-1 victory over New Zealand in Vancouver. The triumph, which saw both Salah and Mostafa Zico contribute a goal and an assist each, propelled Egypt to the top of Group G.

Egypt rallied from a halftime deficit, demonstrating a strong second-half performance to overturn New Zealand's early lead. This historic win significantly boosts Egypt's chances of advancing to the knockout stages of the World Cup 2026.

Trezeguet sealed the victory with Egypt's third goal late in the match. Salah's goal in the 67th minute, his 68th international strike, was met with jubilation from his teammates and the sellout crowd. He received a standing ovation when substituted in the 85th minute.

The win places Egypt in a commanding position in Group G, which had seen its first three matches end in draws, including a scoreless tie between Belgium and Iran earlier on Sunday. This leaves the group wide open for qualification.

New Zealand had taken the lead in the 15th minute through Finn Surman's header from a set piece, a lead they held for nearly 45 minutes. Their corner kick opportunity arose after Elijah Just's strong shot forced a save from Egyptian goalkeeper Mostafa Shoubir.

Egypt had a chance to equalize before halftime when Salah's free-kick attempt from the edge of the box missed wide. However, they came out with renewed intensity in the second half, with Salah testing the New Zealand goalkeeper less than a minute after play resumed.

The breakthrough came in the 58th minute when Mohamed Hany delivered a precise cross for Zico, whose header found the back of the net. Nine minutes later, Zico set up Salah for Egypt's second goal during a swift transition play.

Egypt will conclude their group stage against Iran on Friday, with their advancement to the round of 32 now appearing highly probable. New Zealand, still searching for their own World Cup win, faces Belgium on the same day, hoping for a result that could see them progress.