Egypt boosted their hopes of reaching the FIFA World Cup knockout rounds for the first time after securing a historic 3-1 victory over New Zealand in Group G on Sunday.
Inspired by captain Mohamed Salah, the Pharaohs recovered from an early setback to record their first-ever World Cup win and move to the top of the group standings with four points from two matches.
New Zealand made the brighter start in Vancouver and took the lead after 15 minutes when defender Finn Surman rose highest to head home from a set-piece situation.
Egypt responded positively and gradually took control of the contest. Their persistence paid off when Mostafa Zico restored parity, converting a cross from Mohamed Hany to bring the African side level before the break.
With the match finely balanced, Salah produced a moment of quality in the second half. The Liverpool forward combined neatly with Zico before curling a precise left-footed effort into the net to put Egypt ahead.
The Egyptian captain later turned provider, setting up substitute Trezeguet, who sealed the victory with a close-range header and ensured there would be no late comeback from the Kiwis.
Following the match, Salah described the result as a landmark moment for Egyptian football and thanked the thousands of supporters who created a home-like atmosphere inside the stadium.
The victory leaves Egypt in a strong position heading into their final group-stage encounter against Iran. A draw in Seattle next week would be enough to secure a place in the last 32.
Earlier in the day, Belgium and Iran played out a goalless draw, leaving qualification from Group G still wide open ahead of the final round of matches.
New Zealand, meanwhile, will face Belgium in a crucial fixture as they attempt to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
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