Mohamed Salah orchestrated Egypt's stunning comeback at BC Place Vancouver on Wednesday night. The Pharaohs defeated New Zealand 3-1 to claim their first World Cup victory in 92 years.
New Zealand struck first through Finn Surman's header from a corner kick in the opening half. But Egypt's response in the second period proved decisive and overwhelming.
Mostafa Zico equalized with a header off Mohamed Hany's cross on 58 minutes. Salah then took control of the match with both a goal and an assist.
According to match reports, Salah exchanged passes with Zico before firing into the bottom corner for the lead. He later delivered a corner that found Trezeguet's head for the clinching goal on 82 minutes.
Coach Hossam Hassan's side scored three goals in just 24 minutes during their second-half onslaught. It marked Egypt's first World Cup win across four tournament appearances.
New Zealand suffered their opening defeat in five World Cup matches. The All Whites had drawn their previous four games but still retain hopes of progressing from Group G.
Egypt must face Iran in their final group fixture to secure a knockout stage berth. At minimum, they'll need to avoid defeat against the Iranians.
In other Group H action, Cape Verde pulled off an impressive 2-2 draw with Uruguay. Kevin Pina's early long-range free-kick gave the island nation their first-ever World Cup goal.
Uruguay responded with two goals before halftime to take control of the contest. Maxi Araujo equalized with a diving header from a rebound, then Agustin Canobbio slotted home from close range.
Cape Verde wouldn't surrender despite playing from behind. Helio Varela intercepted a loose back pass on the hour mark and finished clinically past the goalkeeper to restore parity.
The African side survived intense pressure late in the match to hold firm. Cape Verde extended their unbeaten run to five games with this result.
Both teams remain in contention for knockout qualification from Group H. Cape Verde's resilience suggests they're no mere tournament participants but genuine competitors.
