Salah powers Egypt to first World Cup win as Belgium
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- Mohamed Salah scored once and added an assist in Egypt's 3-1 win over New Zealand in Vancouver, securing the Pharaohs' first-ever World Cup victory in eight tournament appearances and moving them atop Group G.
- Romelu Lukaku registered zero shots and an xG of 0.03 before being substituted in the 73rd minute of Belgium's 0-0 draw with Iran at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, capping a season in which the 33-year-old managed just seven appearances for Napoli due to fitness issues.
- Kevin De Bruyne was substituted in the 87th minute looking visibly spent after a long-term hamstring absence limited him to 21 games in all competitions for Napoli, with his passing off and his runs lacking their usual penetration against Iran.
- Egypt will face Iran in Seattle on Friday knowing a result keeps their first-ever World Cup knockout-stage qualification within reach, while Salah moved to within one goal of equalling the country's scoring record held by coach Hossam Hassan.
- Belgium must avoid defeat against New Zealand in their final group game to keep their World Cup hopes alive, with manager Rudi Garcia's side having managed just one goal through two matches after a 1-1 opening draw with Egypt in Seattle.
Why it matters: Egypt's win puts them atop Group G with first-ever knockout qualification within reach, while Belgium must beat New Zealand to stay alive — but Lukaku's 0.03 xG and De Bruyne's visible fatigue suggest this golden generation's last shot at glory has already slipped away.
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