Before the tournament kicked off, many football fans had already counted Egypt out. The general expectation was that the Pharaohs would struggle to make a mark on such a grand stage. But after holding a strong Belgium team to a draw, Egypt started sending a different message; they weren’t just here to take part.
Questions began to swirl: Could Egypt construct its own pyramids in the United States, leaving its opponents feeling like ancient mummies? The stakes were high. The Pharaohs needed to make a statement, something to remind the world that Egyptian football was steeped in history, pride, and ambition.
Their second group match against New Zealand became the perfect opportunity to prove it.
New Zealand came out swinging and struck first. In the 15th minute, Finn Surman soared above everyone to head the ball into the net, giving the All Whites a 1–0 lead. For a moment, doubts crept back in. Was Egypt’s dream slipping away?
But the Pharaohs didn’t back down. They kept pushing, creating chances, testing the New Zealand defense, and hunting for that equalizer. Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush, Emam Ashour, and Mostafa Zico kept knocking on the door.
Then came the turning point. In the 58th minute, Mostafa Zico connected with a cross from Mohamed Hany and headed Egypt level. The comeback was on.
The second half turned into a test of patience and belief. New Zealand held firm, but Egypt kept the pressure on. The Pharaohs knew that one more goal would change everything. And in the 67th minute, the name everyone had been waiting for appeared.
Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian captain found space inside the box and fired home to complete the turnaround. Egypt had gone from chasing the game to taking control.
But they weren’t done yet.
In the 82nd minute, Trezeguet delivered the final blow. A perfect cross from Mohamed Salah found his teammate, who headed the ball into the corner. Egypt had built its pyramid—brick by brick, goal by goal.
The final whistle blew: New Zealand 1–3 Egypt. A victory filled with triumph.
