Egypt is the first African team to play at the FIFA World Cup, making their maiden appearance at the 1934 edition in Italy but had not won a game since then until Monday morning.
The Pharoahs came from a goal down to defeat New Zealand 3-1 at the BC Place Vancouver stadium and go top of Group G on 4 points from two games.
Since 1934, Egypt has played nine World Cup games, losing five, drawing three and winning once (against New Zealand today).
Captain Mohammed Salah was delighted with the performance of his team and happy that Egypt finally smiled to three points at the global football showpiece.
“It is a great feeling for all of us, it is a great achievement and I said before the tournament that we are here to make the people of Egypt happy and I think they are. We are now top of the group, so we just need to focus and prepare for our last group game,” he started before adding, “I have been in the national team for 14 years and we have had incredible moments but before the game today, I told the group we have the chance to write history by registering our first win at the World Cup and thankfully we did it. Now we want to win our final group game and progress to the next round.”
The focus for Salah and Egypt shifts to their final group game against Iran that will be played on 27th June at the Seattle Stadium.
“The victory is achievement for all the players. We also want to qualify from the group and make history. Next game is very important; we have to enjoy today, enjoy tomorrow and enjoy after, said Salah who was named man of the match against New Zealand.
A look at Egypt’s performance at the World Cup
1934 – Hungary 4-2 Egypt
1990 – Netherlands 1-1 Egypt
1990 – Republic of Ireland 0-0 Egypt
1990 – England 1-0 Egypt
2018 – Egypt 0-1 Uruguay
2018- Russia 3-1 Egypt
2018 – Saudi Arabia 2-1 Egypt
2026- Egypt 1-1 Belgium
2026- New Zealand 1-3 Egypt
