Egypt emerged as the biggest winners of the day in Group G, climbing to the top of the standings after a comeback victory over New Zealand. While the Pharaohs collected all three points, Belgium failed to beat Iran and now face serious pressure heading into the final round of group-stage matches.

Salah Inspires Egypt Comeback

For much of the first half, Egypt looked set for a frustrating evening.

New Zealand started brightly and stunned the African side after 15 minutes. Tim Payne delivered a dangerous corner into the box, where Finn Surman rose highest to power a header into the net and give the Kiwis an unexpected lead.

Egypt had opportunities to respond before halftime, but their finishing let them down. Omar Marmoush failed to trouble the goalkeeper, Mohamed Salah missed the target from a promising set-piece routine, and Emam Ashour squandered the team's best chance from close range.

Everything changed after the break. Mostafa Ziko levelled the score shortly after halftime before playing a crucial role in Egypt's second goal. A swift counterattack ended with Salah finding the net as the Pharaohs sliced through New Zealand's defense with a series of quick passes.

With New Zealand unable to mount a response, Egypt sealed the victory in the closing stages. Trezeguet met Salah's corner delivery in the 82nd minute to make it 3-1 and complete the turnaround.

The result moved Egypt into first place in the group ahead of the decisive final matchday.

Belgium Miss Chance to Go Top

Belgium had the opportunity to take control of Group G but failed to break down a disciplined Iranian side.

In truth, Iran came closer to scoring during large stretches of the match. Mehdi Taremi thought he had given his team the lead in the first half after a cleverly worked free kick, only for VAR to rule the goal out for a marginal offside decision.

The Iranian striker remained a constant threat and later forced an excellent save from Thibaut Courtois. Defender Hossein Kanaani also went close with a dangerous header.

Red Card Fails to Change the Game

The turning point appeared to arrive midway through the second half.

Belgian defender Nathan Ngoy lost possession and was forced to bring down Taremi as the forward raced clear on goal. The referee immediately produced a red card, leaving Belgium with ten men for the final stages.

Surprisingly, Iran struggled to capitalize on the numerical advantage. Rather than increasing the pressure, they remained cautious and rarely committed large numbers forward.

Belgium, meanwhile, created a couple of late opportunities through Maxim De Cuyper, but goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand produced two excellent saves to preserve the clean sheet.

Group G Wide Open Before Final Round

With one match remaining, Egypt sit alone at the top of Group G of FIFA World Cup 2026. Iran are level on points but trail the Pharaohs on goal difference.

Belgium have dropped to third place with two points, while New Zealand remain bottom of the standings with one.

Nothing has been decided yet, but Egypt are undoubtedly in the strongest position as the race for the knockout stage enters its final chapter.