The goals, minute by minute
- 15'Finn SurmanGoal · 1-0
- 58'Mostafa ZicoGoal · 1-1
- 67'Mohamed SalahGoal · 1-2
- 82'TrézéguetGoal · 1-3
The preview
Written before the match. We've left it as it was, even where the game said otherwise.
Context
New Zealand (85th FIFA, lowest-ranked) vs Egypt (~33rd FIFA).
Level of the teams
- New Zealand: back after 16 years, poor in friendlies, physically strong but limited in quality.
- Egypt: led by Mohamed Salah, unbeaten in African qualifying. Fighting for 2nd in the group on individual pedigree.
Key factors
- Egypt superior in talent, with Salah the big difference.
- New Zealand will rely on physicality and direct play.
- Egypt needs a win to set up qualification.
Prediction
Most likely result: 2-0 Egypt (alternative: 1-0 Egypt)
- New Zealand win: 15%
- Draw: 25%
- Egypt win: 60%
Player to watch: Mohamed Salah, can decide the game on his own.
Final verdict, Confidence: medium-high
Egypt is superior and relies on Salah to break down a limited New Zealand. An Egyptian win is the most likely scenario.