World Cup 2026: New Zealand 1-3 Egypt Player Ratings

Egypt took a giant step toward the Round of 32 with a superb 3-1 comeback victory over New Zealand at BC Place in Vancouver. After falling behind in the first half, the Pharaohs produced an outstanding second-half display, inspired by captain Mohamed Salah, to secure what was their first-ever victory at a FIFA World Cup.

Match Report

The match started in disappointing fashion for Egypt as New Zealand stunned the Africans in the 15th minute. Defender Finn Surman rose highest from a corner kick to head home and give the All Whites an unexpected lead. Egypt struggled to find rhythm during the opening 45 minutes and went into halftime trailing 1-0.

However, Hossam Hassan’s side emerged a different team after the break. Egypt increased the tempo and began to dominate possession, with Mohamed Salah and Emam Ashour finding more space in attacking areas.

The equaliser arrived in the 59th minute when Mostafa Ziko powered home a header to bring Egypt level. The momentum had clearly shifted, and eight minutes later Salah completed the turnaround, finishing off a flowing move to put the Pharaohs ahead.

New Zealand attempted to respond, but Egypt remained in control. Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet” sealed the victory in the 82nd minute, heading home from a Salah corner to complete a memorable comeback victory.

The result moves Egypt into a strong position in Group G, which also includes Belgium and Iran.

Egypt Player Ratings

Goalkeeper

Mostafa Shobeir – 8.3

A superb performance from the goalkeeper. Made several crucial saves, especially in the first half, and kept Egypt in the match when New Zealand were threatening a second goal.

Defence

Ahmed Aboul-Fetouh – 7.0

Solid defensively and provided useful support down the left flank.

Hamdi Fathy – 6.8

Steady before being forced off through injury in the first half.

Yasser Ibrahim – 6.4

Improved after halftime and helped Egypt deal with New Zealand’s aerial threat.

Mohamed Hany – 6.7

Worked hard defensively and was more effective after the break.

Midfield

Mohanad Lasheen – 7.1

Disciplined performance in midfield despite picking up a yellow card.

Marwan Attia – 7.2

One of Egypt’s best midfielders, helping control possession and break up attacks.

Emam Ashour – 6.4

Not at his best but contributed to Egypt’s attacking pressure before being substituted.

Attack

Mohamed Salah – 8.6

The man of the match. Scored a goal, delivered an assist, created several chances and led Egypt’s comeback with a captain’s performance.

Mostafa Ziko – 8.0

Outstanding display. Scored the equaliser and constantly troubled the New Zealand defence.

Omar Marmoush – 7.6

Worked tirelessly across the front line and played a key role in Egypt’s attacking transitions.

Substitutes

Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet” – 7.5

Scored the crucial third goal shortly after coming on.

Hossam Abdelmaguid – 7.4

Strong defensive contribution late in the match.

Rami Rabia – 7.2

Settled the defence following Hamdi Fathy’s injury.

Hamza Abdelkarim – 6.5

Added fresh energy in midfield.

Zizo – 6.6

Helped Egypt maintain control during the closing stages.

Verdict

Salah rolled back the years with a world-class performance, while Ziko and Shobeir were equally influential in Egypt’s historic victory. The Pharaohs now head into their final group match full of confidence and with qualification firmly within their grasp.