Group G at the FIFA World Cup 2026 remains wide open after the opening round of fixtures, with all four sides level on one point. New Zealand and Egypt now meet knowing that a victory could be the decisive step towards a first-ever knockout-stage appearance for either nation.

All to play for in Group G

New Zealand kicked off their campaign with a 2-2 draw against Iran. Elijah Just scored twice — both goals created by Chris Wood — but manager Darren Bazeley will be concerned by his side's defensive fragility, with Iran managing 17 shots across the 90 minutes.

Egypt, meanwhile, took the lead against Belgium through Emam Ashour's well-struck first-half effort, only to concede and leave with a single point. Mohamed Salah did not score but provided the assist for his side's goal, and he arrives at this fixture determined to make a greater attacking impact alongside Omar Marmoush.

Where the game will be decided

For New Zealand, the midfield pairing of Marko Stamenic and Joe Bell will be central to any hope of containing the individual quality that Salah and Marmoush bring. Just, who linked superbly with Wood against Iran, will carry the Kiwis' chief attacking threat and arrives in confident form.

Egypt's defensive resilience will face an equally stern examination. The Pharaohs found it difficult to cope with the physical presence of Romelu Lukaku after his introduction for Belgium in the second half, and Al Ahly centre-back Yasser Ibrahim will need to produce a disciplined display to handle the powerful Wood.

FourFourTwo predicts New Zealand 1-2 Egypt, with Salah and Marmoush expected to be the difference-makers as Egypt chase a historic first World Cup victory.