The long wait for Mohamed Salah and Egypt at the World Cup has finally ended, with the team securing their first-ever victory in the competition at the ninth attempt. The result, a 3–1 win, leaves the Pharaohs on the verge of advancing to the last 32.
The breakthrough came after years of frustration on the global stage, and this success puts Egypt in a strong position in their group. A result against Iran could be enough to confirm progression, although they may not even require it depending on other outcomes.
This victory also marks a significant moment in Egypt’s broader World Cup history, finally breaking a long-standing winless run in the tournament.
Salah inspires comeback against New Zealand
Egypt’s match began poorly after New Zealand took an early lead, putting immediate pressure on the African side. However, the game shifted in the second half as Egypt responded strongly.
Salah struck in the 67th minute to put his team ahead after an uneven start to the match, where he had previously struggled to make an impact. His goal changed the rhythm of the contest and lifted Egypt’s performance.
He later played a decisive role again, delivering a corner that was headed in by Trezeguet to confirm the victory and secure a 3–1 final score.
From past disappointments to redemption
Salah’s World Cup journey has been marked by setbacks, including limited involvement in 2018 due to injury concerns and difficult team results. In that tournament, Egypt suffered defeats to Uruguay, Russia, and Saudi Arabia, with Salah scoring only once from the penalty spot in a losing effort.
There were also reports of tension around that campaign, including claims of disrupted preparation and speculation about his international future. Egypt later failed to qualify for the following World Cup, extending their disappointment.
At the club level, Salah’s final season with Liverpool was also described as difficult, including reported disagreements with then-manager Arne Slot before his departure was announced in the summer.
National impact and renewed belief
Despite a slow start to the current tournament, Salah’s performance against New Zealand underlined his importance to Egypt, where he carries enormous expectation with every appearance. He now has 68 international goals in 118 matches, leaving him close to his national team manager’s record.
Observers highlighted his influence throughout the game, noting his high involvement in attacking actions and his ability to shift momentum when it mattered most. Former players and coaches pointed to his leadership in decisive moments as key to Egypt’s success.
The win carries added emotional weight for Egypt, who had not recorded a World Cup victory in 92 years, finally easing a long-standing burden on the national team.