In a night of high drama and historic firsts at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Mohamed Salah led Egypt to their maiden tournament victory 92 years after their debut, while Cape Verde stunned Uruguay with a first-ever World Cup goal and a lead in a Group H thriller.
Egypt End 92-Year World Cup Wait with Salah’s Masterclass
Mohamed Salah silenced his critics and etched his name into Egyptian football folklore on Sunday, as he inspired his country to a 3-1 victory over New Zealand in their Group B opener at SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles. The Pharaohs had waited nearly a century for their first World Cup win since debuting in 1934, and Salah ensured it was worth the wait.
Salah, who had previously endured a barren World Cup campaign without a goal, delivered a sensational performance. He opened the scoring with a composed finish before setting up another for his teammate, capping a dominant display that saw Egypt recover from being 1-0 down to claim all three points. The result marks a significant milestone for Egyptian football and a personal redemption for Salah, who has now inched closer to the national team’s all-time goalscoring record.
Key Moments from Egypt vs. New Zealand:
- 19’ – New Zealand took an early lead through a set-piece conversion.
- 45+2’ – Salah equalized with a clinical finish, sparking wild celebrations.
- 65’ – Assisted the winning goal, securing Egypt’s historic first World Cup victory.
The win puts Egypt in a strong position in Group B, with fans and pundits now eyeing their next challenge against a formidable Argentina side.
Cape Verde Stun Uruguay in Group H with First-Ever World Cup Goal
In another Group H blockbuster, Cape Verde produced one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 World Cup so far by taking a first-half lead against two-time champions Uruguay in Miami. The diminutive African nation, making its World Cup debut, defied the odds to hold Uruguay to a thrilling 1-1 draw at Hard Rock Stadium.
The match will be remembered for Cape Verde’s first-ever World Cup goal, scored by Kevin Pina in the 22nd minute. The small island nation’s passionate fanbase, many of whom traveled across continents to support their team, erupted in celebration as Pina’s strike sent shockwaves through the tournament. Uruguay, despite dominating possession, struggled to break down Cape Verde’s resolute defense until a late equalizer.
The result keeps Cape Verde in contention for a knockout spot in Group H, with their next match against South Korea eagerly awaited. Meanwhile, Uruguay, now under pressure, must regroup quickly to avoid an early exit.
Key Highlights from Cape Verde vs. Uruguay:
- 22’ – Kevin Pina scores Cape Verde’s first-ever World Cup goal, stun the crowd.
- 87’ – Uruguay equalize through a late penalty, salvaging a point.
- Cape Verde’s defensive resilience frustrates Uruguay, showcasing the potential of African football’s rising stars.
Belgium and Iran Play Out Tense Draw in Group E
In a tightly contested Group E encounter at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, a ten-man Belgium side struggled to break down a disciplined Iran, managing only a 0-0 draw. The Red Devils, missing key players due to suspension and injury, failed to capitalize on their dominance, while Iran’s goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand delivered a string of world-class saves to keep his side in the game.
The result leaves Belgium winless in their first two matches, raising questions about their tournament credentials, while Iran remain unbeaten and will fancy their chances of qualifying for the knockout stages for the first time in their history.
What’s Next in the FIFA World Cup 2026?
The tournament continues to deliver drama and surprises, with underdogs like Cape Verde and Egypt stealing the show. Fans worldwide are already hailing this edition as one of the most unpredictable in recent memory.
Upcoming Fixtures (June 23, 2026):
- Group C: England vs. Ghana
- Group D: France vs. Denmark
- Group F: Portugal vs. Netherlands
- Group G: Brazil vs. Serbia
With the knockout stages looming, every point counts, and surprises are likely to keep coming.
Stay tuned to Kridangan Sports for live updates, expert analysis, and in-depth coverage of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
“Mohamed Salah finally ended his World Cup heartbreak as Egypt secured their first-ever victory in the tournament, while Cape Verde produced a stunning shock by taking the…
— kridangan