Egypt secured a historic 3-1 win over New Zealand at the World Cup, with Mohamed Salah playing a key role in the comeback victory, as coach Hossam Hassan broke down in tears and couldn't resist a dig at those who had mishandled the Liverpool icon
Stephen Killen Senior Football Writer
09:10, 22 Jun 2026Updated 09:17, 22 Jun 2026
Hossam Hassan failed to hide his emotions after Egypt's World Cup triumph.
Hossam Hassan failed to hide his emotions after Egypt's World Cup triumph.
Egypt manager Hossam Hassan battled to control his feelings following their landmark 3-1 triumph over New Zealand at the World Cup. However, the Pharaohs icon appeared unable to resist a subtle jab at what seemed like the poor management of Liverpool star Mohamed Salah.
The 32 year old demonstrated he remains world-class as he proved instrumental in their fightback victory against the All Whites. Finn Surman thundered in a first-half header for one of the tournament's lowest-ranked sides.
Yet Egypt emerged with renewed determination after the interval, with Ziko restoring parity before the hour mark, before both he and Salah linked up to seal the comeback.
The Liverpool forward's strike leaves him just one goal shy of matching Hassan's record as the nation's all-time top scorer with 69 goals, though Salah's influence extended beyond that as Trezeguet nodded home late on to confirm a maiden World Cup victory in their history.
Jubilant celebrations erupted in Vancouver, Canada as the Egypt substitutes flooded onto the field to mark the achievement, with festivities continuing in the dressing room. Hassan sprinted along the touchline brandishing the flag while the squad gathered in the centre circle to savour the accomplishment after the final whistle.
During his touchline post-match conversation, the 59 year old was unable to suppress the emotion of a memorable evening in Egyptian football folklore. Becoming tearful, he remarked: "I am very happy with this victory, and I thank the entire Egyptian people for their support."
"This victory is dedicated to all Egyptians, both men and women. I am extremely happy, and my feelings are similar to those of millions of Egyptians after this win.
"We were successful in the match and put in a great effort, especially after the first half, which we ended with a goal against us. However, our performance improved, and we managed to win in the second half.
"I thank all the players, the technical and administrative staff. Everyone put in great effort to achieve the Egyptians' dream in the World Cup."
Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah completed the comeback for Egypt in a historic World Cup win.
Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah completed the comeback for Egypt in a historic World Cup win.(Image: Getty Images)
Addressing journalists following the victory, he couldn't help but take a swipe at some of the managers who have previously worked with Salah. The 32 year old will officially become a free agent when the knockout stages commence next month after reaching an arrangement with Liverpool to end his contract prematurely.
The attacker was caught up in an acrimonious row with former Reds manager Arne Slot throughout the Dutchman's concluding campaign in charge at Anfield. Salah was utilised in a central role, positioned behind Manchester City's Omar Marmoush while being flanked on either side in a 4-2-3-1 system.
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Hassan claimed responsibility for his role in seemingly getting the best out of Salah. He said: "Salah worked hard on the pitch and this is something you should know.
"I am maybe the first coach to let him play in a position that matches his danger, that matches his capabilities and qualities. We worked on so many things and I am sure we are going to see more from him."