New Zealand Take On Egypt at the World Cup: Bold Predictions, Key Lineups, and What to Expect

New Zealand and Egypt clash on Sunday evening both looking to build on their opening-round draws by claiming what would be a historic first World Cup win for either side.

The All Whites entered Group G as the tournament's perceived underdogs, yet Darren Bazeley's squad delivered an impressive showing against Iran in their opening fixture. New Zealand led twice thanks to a brace from Elijah Just, but couldn't hold on and had to settle for a 2–2 stalemate.

Egypt, meanwhile, went head-to-head with Belgium in Seattle, dominating a strong European outfit for extended periods and earning a 1–1 draw. It was a promising display from the North Africans, who will carry plenty of confidence after securing a positive result against arguably their toughest group-stage opponent on paper.

With all teams in Group G tied on one point, picking up three points on Sunday would virtually guarantee a spot in the round of 16.

It's a rare chance for both New Zealand and Egypt to etch their names in World Cup history and advance beyond the group stage.

New Zealand vs. Egypt Score Prediction

A Landmark Win For Egypt

Despite New Zealand's solid World Cup debut, they remain a team with clear weaknesses, and Egypt appears to be the stronger side overall. Even before the tournament began, this match was widely considered Hossam Hassan's best opportunity for a victory.

Egypt outperformed Belgium for long stretches in their opener and will feel that three points were within reach. A similar performance in their second outing should yield a historic outcome.

New Zealand showed real attacking quality in their first game, though it came against an Iranian side dealing with an enormously challenging off-field situation that likely affected their performance.

Prediction: New Zealand 1–2 Egypt

New Zealand Predicted Lineup vs. Egypt

Bazeley is unlikely to tinker with the starting eleven that faced Iran, particularly in the attacking third.

While the imposing Chris Wood failed to get on the scoresheet, he put in one of the standout center-forward displays of the tournament to date, with his outstanding link-up play directly setting up both of Just's goals.

New Zealand's defensive vulnerabilities were exposed by Iran, but this remains the strongest group Bazeley can call upon. Fan favorite Tim Payne will be eager to put in a stronger performance.

New Zealand predicted lineup vs. Egypt (4-2-3-1): Crocombe; Payne, Surman, Boxall, Cacace; Bell, Stamenić; McCowatt, Singh, Just; Wood.

Egypt Predicted Lineup vs. New Zealand

With no new injury worries or disciplinary issues, Egypt are expected to name the same starting XI that held the lead for nearly 40 minutes against Belgium.

Marmoush, Salah, Ashour and Mostafa Ziko will be eager to exploit a vulnerable defensive unit. Even if Salah can no longer handle a full 90 minutes, Barça Atlètic talent Hamza Abdelkarim made an immediate impact by stretching the defense and creating space for teammates on his World Cup debut.

Egypt predicted lineup vs. New Zealand (4-2-3-1): Shobeir; Hany, Ibrahim, Fathi, Fotouh; Lasheen, Attia; Salah, Ashour, Ziko; Marmoush.

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