SOCCER: Egypt coach Hassan's stern half-time message fuels their first World Cup victory

VANCOUVER — Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan revealed that a strong halftime message inspired his team to rally from a goal down and secure a historic 3-1 victory over New Zealand at BC Place, earning the country's first-ever FIFA World Cup win.

The victory moved Egypt to the top of Group G with four points from two matches after opening their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Belgium.

Hassan said he challenged his players during the break, urging them to show greater determination and reward the passionate support of Egyptian fans.

"At halftime, I told the players we were not going back onto the pitch unless we were determined to win and play with the pride that our supporters deserve," Hassan told reporters after the match.

The Egyptian coach acknowledged the pressure of delivering the country's first World Cup victory. Before the win over New Zealand, Egypt had recorded five losses and two draws across their previous World Cup appearances in 1934, 1990, and 2018.

Hassan said the team needed time to build confidence, maximize its strengths, and learn from the efforts of previous generations who helped pave the way for Egypt's return to the world stage.

"I wanted this generation to shape its own future and determine its own path," he said. "We also want to continue developing the national league and contribute to the growth of African football."

Egypt's comeback was led by captain Mohamed Salah, who scored one goal and provided an assist as the team displayed greater attacking intensity and creativity in the second half.

Hassan praised Salah's work ethic and highlighted his decision to deploy the star forward in a role that better suits his strengths.

"Salah worked hard on the pitch. I believe I am one of the first coaches to use him in a position that fully matches his abilities and qualities," Hassan said. "We have worked on many things together, and I am confident we will see even more from him."

Egypt will conclude its Group G campaign against Iran in Seattle. -Reporting by Pearl Josephine Nazare in Vancouver; Editing by Peter Rutherford/Reuters