EGYPT roared back from the brink of a World Cup shocker to break New Zealand hearts with an absolute masterclass of a second-half turnaround at Vancouver's BC Place. The All Whites threatened to pull off one of the tournament's greatest upsets when rising star Finn Surman sent the Kiwi fans into absolute raptures by bundling home a sensational opening goal after just 15 minutes of play. Armed with a disciplined defensive low block and utilizing the towering presence of Chris Wood up front, New Zealand frustrated the African giants throughout a gritty first half, leaving global superstar Mohamed Salah cutting an isolated and deeply frustrated figure on the right flank as the lowest-ranked side in the tournament dared to dream of a historic victory.

But the half-time team talk completely re-energized the Pharaohs, who emerged from the tunnel playing with an entirely different gear and a ferocious attacking tempo. The relentless pressure finally paid dividends in the 58th minute when an expansive switch of play found Mohamed Hany out wide, and the fullback whipped in a pinpoint cross for an unmarked Mostafa Ziko to power a bullet header past Max Crocombe. With the momentum completely swinging toward the Egyptians, the Liverpool legend himself stepped up to seize total control of the match. Just nine minutes later, Salah completely ignited the stadium by ghosting into the box and delivering a trademark clinical finish to send Egypt into a 2-1 lead, completely shattering the Kiwis' defensive resilience. The comeback was officially sealed in the 82nd minute when super-sub Trézéguet latched onto a devastating transition and confidently slotted home Egypt's third of the night. The 3-1 victory gives the Pharaohs a crucial three points in Group G, while a gutted New Zealand squad is left to ponder what might have been after matching the giants for an hour.