Egypt secured the first FIFA World Cup victory in their history with a 3-1 comeback win over New Zealand on Sunday, moving within touching distance of a maiden appearance in the knockout stage.
Mohamed Salah, Mostafa Zico and Trezeguet scored for the Pharaohs after Finn Surman had given New Zealand an early lead in the Group G encounter in Vancouver.
The victory lifted Egypt to the top of Group G on four points, leaving them needing only a draw against Iran in Seattle on Friday to qualify for the last 32.
New Zealand opened the scoring in the 15th minute when Surman rose highest to head home from a set-piece.
Egypt responded strongly after the break, with Zico levelling the score before Salah produced a moment of quality in the 67th minute. The Liverpool forward exchanged passes with Zico and curled a left-footed effort into the net.
Salah then turned provider, delivering a cross that substitute Trezeguet converted with a low header to seal the win.
“In years to come, we will remember that this was one of the achievements in history,” Salah said after the match.
“It feels like we are playing in Egypt. It’s a great win and great vibe.”
Earlier in the day, Belgium and Iran played out a goalless draw in the other Group G fixture.
Belgium will face New Zealand in Vancouver on Friday, while Egypt take on Iran in a match that could secure their place in the knockout rounds for the first time.
