New Zealand vs Egypt — World Cup 2026 Group · Matchday 2
Match preview / What to expect
Updated Jun 6, 2026New Zealand face Egypt in Group G in a finely balanced meeting between Oceania's standard-bearers and an Egyptian side led by Liverpool talisman Mohamed Salah.
Darren Bazeley's New Zealand are physical, well-organised and dangerous from set pieces, with veteran striker Chris Wood the focal point of their attack. Hossam Hassan's Egypt revolve around Salah's brilliance, supported by the goal threat of Omar Marmoush and the creativity of Trezeguet.
Egypt carry the greater individual quality and will expect to control the game, but New Zealand's resilience and aerial presence through Wood make them a stubborn opponent.
Key storylines
- 01Mohamed Salah leading Egypt's hopes against a resilient New Zealand.
- 02Chris Wood's aerial threat as the All Whites' attacking focal point.
- 03Omar Marmoush adding extra firepower alongside Salah.
Prediction
New Zealand 0-2 Egypt
Projected lineups
Projected XI — not confirmedNew Zealand
Formation 3-5-2- 1M. Woud

