Egypt impressed on Sunday night as they registered their first World Cup win, defeating New Zealand 3-1 in the GG group at BC Place, Vancouver.Stars in front Mohamed Salah provided the biggest part again, scoring the winning goal as Egypt turned a successful performance into a big result. The victory saw the Pharaohs climb to the top of the table, although the boxing’s qualifications are still uncertain.Egypt will now face Iran in the semi-final in Seattle, who need a little bit of a draw to advance in the tournament.
Salah gives the time that is most important
The game was for Salah at a critical moment. The Egypt captain struck in the 67th minute, finishing off a smart assist from Mostafa Zico to give his side the lead for the first time in the competition.The goal was Salah’s 68th international strike, and he celebrated with a trademark fist bump before being booed by his teammates and roaring fans in the sold-out stadium.Earlier, Salah went close in the first half when Omar Marmoush set him up from a free-kick, but his effort went into the side netting.When he was brought on in the 85th minute, the Liverpool forward received punches from all sides of the stadium in recognition of his performance.
The comeback was completed as Egypt dominated the second half
New Zealand stunned Egypt by taking the lead in the 15th minute through Finn Surman, who headed home Tim Payne’s corner. The Whites, however, could not extend their advantage as Egypt slowly began to dominate.Mostafa Zico led the game in the 58th minute with a good header that the goalkeeper managed to get a hand to but was unable to finish. Zico then assisted Salah’s winner, making the second surgery.Trezeguet sealed victory in the 82nd minute with a diving header, ensuring that Egypt would not be denied their former title.
Group G open competition
With the victory, Egypt moved into a strong position in Group G but remained under pressure to enter their group stage final against Iran. New Zealand, meanwhile, are winless in the tournament and will face Belgium in Vancouver.Elsewhere in the group, Belgium and Iran played out a goalless draw, leaving the qualifying competition for good as the final stages of the tournament approached.
