New Zealand’s All Whites lost 3-1 to Egypt in Vancouver, Canada, on Monday at the Football World Cup. The result ended New Zealand’s unbeaten run at the tournament and left the team with a difficult final group match ahead. Finn Surman gave the All Whites an early lead in the 15th minute with a strong header from a set piece.
Surman, a centre-back, is usually known more for defending than scoring goals. His header was his third goal for New Zealand and helped the All Whites lead 1-0 at half-time. It was the first time New Zealand had ever been ahead at the break in a World Cup match. The team defended well in the first half and kept Egypt’s star players quiet for long periods.
Egypt came out much stronger after half-time and put New Zealand under heavy pressure. Mostafa Zico scored in the 58th minute after New Zealand failed to stop a cross into the box. Mohamed Salah then put Egypt ahead in the 67th minute with a calm finish into Max Crocombe’s goal. Substitute Trezeguet scored Egypt’s third goal in the 82nd minute with a diving header.
The win moved Egypt to the top of Group G as the only team in the group to have won a match. New Zealand dropped to the bottom of the group but still have one final chance to keep their World Cup hopes alive. The All Whites must now try to beat Belgium in their last group game. Egypt will face Iran as they look to secure their place in the next round.
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