Egypt wrote a new chapter in their football history on Monday, coming from behind to beat New Zealand 3-1 in Vancouver, to claim their first-ever World Cup victory in nearly a century.

Goals from Mostafa Ziko and Mohamed Salah either side of the hour mark turned the contest in Egypt's favour after New Zealand had led through a first-half header from Finn Surman, before substitute Mahmoud "Trezeguet" Hassan struck late to put the result beyond doubt.

The win lifts the Pharaohs to the top of Group G with four points, two ahead of Belgium and Iran, and leaves them well placed to reach the knockout stage for the first time, with one match remaining against Iran in Seattle on 27 June.

The victory ends a long wait for Egypt, who had failed to win in any of their three previous World Cup appearances - 1934, 1990 and 2018 - exiting in the first round on each occasion. 

Coach Hossam Hassan maintained the same lineup that started against Belgium, 1-1, a week ago.

Egypt started the brighter side under the closed roof at BC Place, with captain Mohamed Salah forcing an early save and going close again from a free-kick. But it was New Zealand who broke the deadlock in the 15th minute, Surman rising to power home Tim Payne's corner kick for his third international goal.

The Pharaohs struggled during the first half and keeper Mostafa Shobeir made several impressive saves to keep his team in the game.

Egypt suffered an early setback before the interval when defender Hamdy Fathy was forced off through injury, replaced by Ramy Rabia.

The All Whites carried the lead into the break, with Egypt unable to turn their share of possession into clear chances despite pressure from Salah and Omar Marmoush. 

A second half comeback

Coach Hossam Hassan's side emerged for the second half with renewed urgency, and the pressure told in the 58th minute when Mohamed Hany's cross was met by Ziko, whose header proved too powerful for New Zealand goalkeeper Max Crocombe to keep out.

Egypt continued to push and were rewarded again in the 67th minute. Salah combined in a quick one-two with Ziko before driving a precise finish beyond Crocombe to send the Pharaohs in front for the first time in the match.

With Egypt sensing a historic result, Hassan turned to his bench, introducing Trezeguet and young striker Hamza Abdelkarim to add fresh legs going forward. The move paid dividends in the 82nd minute when Trezeguet rose to meet a Salah corner with a well-directed header, making it 3-1 and effectively sealing the win.

Salah was withdrawn shortly afterward to a standing ovation, leaving the field having scored once and set up Egypt's third goal.

New Zealand pushed for a way back into the contest in stoppage time, with Tyler Bindon's close-range effort denied by a sharp reaction save from Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir, while substitute Zizo saw his own chance to extend Egypt's lead blocked by a desperate New Zealand challenge.

Egypt will look to confirm their place in the Round of 32 when they face Iran in Seattle on 27 June, while New Zealand, who remain in contention despite the defeat, take on Belgium on the same day.

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