Egypt recorded the first FIFA World Cup victory in their history after coming from behind to defeat New Zealand 3-1 in a Group G match at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, Canada, on Monday.

Despite conceding an early goal, the Pharaohs staged an impressive second-half comeback, with goals from Mostafa Ziko, Mohamed Salah and Trezeguet securing a memorable win.

New Zealand took the lead in the 15th minute when Finn Surman rose highest to head home from a Michael Payne corner. The Kiwis dominated much of the first half and carried their one-goal advantage into the break.

Egypt emerged a transformed side after halftime and found the equalizer in the 58th minute. Mohamed Hany delivered a precise cross from the right flank, allowing Mostafa Ziko to head past the goalkeeper from close range.

The momentum shifted firmly in Egypt’s favor nine minutes later. Salah combined brilliantly with Ziko on the edge of the box before calmly finishing into the bottom corner to put his side ahead.

Egypt sealed the victory in the 82nd minute when substitute Trezeguet headed home from a well-delivered cross, marking his impact with only his third touch of the game.

The win carries historic significance for Egypt, who had failed to register a victory in their previous World Cup appearances in 1934, 1990 and 2018. Having played eight matches across those tournaments without a win, the North African nation finally broke the drought at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Egypt had opened their campaign with a draw against Belgium and now move into a strong position in Group G. New Zealand, meanwhile, suffered defeat despite taking the lead and will look to recover in their final group-stage match.

Egypt will face Iran in their next Group G fixture on June 27, while New Zealand will take on Belgium on the same day.