Mohamed Salah was at the centre of a major World Cup talking point as Egypt came from behind to defeat New Zealand 3-1 in their Group G clash.
The former Liverpool forward scored Egypt’s second goal while New Zealand were temporarily down to 10 men after Ben Old was forced off the pitch to change his shorts following a wardrobe malfunction.
New Zealand Take Early Lead
New Zealand made a bright start and stunned Egypt by taking the lead through Finn Surman.
The defender rose well to meet a cross and powered a header into the net, giving the All Whites hope of a famous World Cup result.
Egypt struggled to break New Zealand down for long periods of the first half, with the underdogs staying compact and frustrating the North Africans.
Egypt Fight Back Through Ziko
Egypt increased their pressure after the break and were rewarded in the 58th minute when Mostafa Ziko scored the equaliser.
The goal shifted momentum in Egypt’s favour and forced New Zealand to defend deeper as the North Africans pushed for a second.
Ben Old Forced Off After Kit Problem
New Zealand then suffered a bizarre setback shortly after introducing Ben Old as a substitute for Callum McCowatt.
Old appeared to be involved in a challenge near the Egypt box, but no foul was given. Moments later, he was forced to leave the pitch because of a large tear in his shorts.
The incident left New Zealand temporarily a man down while Old changed his kit on the sidelines.
Salah Punishes New Zealand
Egypt quickly took advantage of the extra space, with Mohamed Salah driving into the box and firing a low shot into the bottom corner.
The goal gave Egypt a 2-1 lead but also sparked controversy, as New Zealand were still without Old at the time.
Salah’s strike proved to be the turning point of the match and put Egypt on course for a famous win.
Trezeguet Seals Historic Victory
Egypt confirmed the result when Trezeguet scored the third goal late in the game.
His finish ended New Zealand’s hopes of a comeback and sealed a historic victory for Egypt.
The win moved Egypt to the top of Group G with four points, ahead of Belgium and Iran, who have two points each.
Egypt Close In On Knockout Stage
Egypt are now in a strong position to reach the knockout stage.
A draw against Iran in their final group match could be enough to send them through, while even a defeat may still leave them with a chance of progressing as one of the best third-placed teams.
New Zealand, however, remain in a difficult position with just one point and must now win their final group match to keep their hopes alive.
