The Pharaohs of Egypt finally recorded their first-ever FIFA World Cup victory after defeating New Zealand 3-1 in their Group stage encounter at the 2026 World Cup.
Egypt, who became the first African nation to participate in the World Cup back in 1934, had gone 92 years without registering a win at football’s biggest tournament.
New Zealand drew first blood through Finn Surman, who gave the Oceania side an early lead. However, Egypt responded positively as Mostafa Ziko restored parity before halftime.
The North Africans took control of proceedings in the second half, with captain Mohammed Salah putting his side ahead before Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet” added a third goal to seal a historic victory for Egypt.
The win keeps Egypt’s hopes of progressing to the knockout stage alive while ending a long-standing unwanted record at the World Cup.
In another Group fixture, Cabo Verde earned a valuable 2-2 draw against Uruguay in a thrilling contest.
The Blue Sharks took the lead through Lenini, but Uruguay fought back with goals from Maxi Araújo and Nicolás Cunnibio to turn the game around and take command.
Cabo Verde, however, refused to surrender and found a late equaliser through Hélio Varela to secure a deserved point against the South American giants.
The result marks another impressive outing for the African side, who continue to defy expectations at the tournament.
