Mohamed Salah scored the decisive goal as Egypt claimed their first-ever FIFA World Cup victory with a 3-1 comeback win over New Zealand on Sunday in Vancouver.
The Pharaohs captain struck in the 67th minute to put Egypt ahead after the North Africans had fought back from an early deficit.
Salah celebrated his 68th international goal with a fist pump before being swarmed by teammates in front of a jubilant crowd at BC Place.
The Liverpool star received a standing ovation when he was substituted five minutes from time.
The victory lifted Egypt to the top of Group G, although qualification for the knockout stage remains undecided.
The Pharaohs will face Iran in Seattle on Friday, knowing that a draw should be enough to secure progression.
New Zealand opened the scoring after 15 minutes when defender Finn Surman rose highest to head home a corner delivered by Tim Payne. The goal was Surman’s third for his country.
Egypt nearly levelled before halftime when Omar Marmoush set up Salah from a free kick, but the forward’s effort curled narrowly wide.
The Africans emerged stronger after the break and were rewarded in the 58th minute. Mostafa Zico found space inside the penalty area to head past goalkeeper Max Crocombe, despite the keeper getting a touch on the ball.
Salah then completed the turnaround nine minutes later, finishing from a clever back-heel assist by Zico. The goal moved him within one strike of matching head coach Hossam Hassan’s all-time Egypt scoring record.
Trézéguet sealed the win in the 82nd minute with a diving header.
Egypt were forced into a first-half change after Hamdy Fathy picked up an injury and was replaced by Ramy Rabia.
The result builds on Egypt’s opening 1-1 draw with Belgium, while New Zealand, who previously shared a 2-2 draw with Iran, remain in search of their first win of the tournament.
The All Whites will return to Vancouver on Friday for a crucial clash against Belgium.
