2026 World Cup Group G: New Zealand vs Egypt Preview, Odds and Predictions (June 21)
- When: Sunday, June 21, 2026. 9:00 PM ET
- Where: BC Place, Vancouver, Canada
- How to Watch: FS1
The 2026 World Cup goes through the second round of matches with the fourth matchup in Group G getting underway in Vancouver as New Zealand battles with Egypt. These two squads will likely be in direct competition for a qualifying spot in the group, meaning that there will be pressure on both nations on MD2.
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New Zealand Stats & Team News
New Zealand played remarkably well in the country’s first World Cup game since 2010. They competed against Iran throughout a match that ended in a 2-2 draw in Matchday 1. Elijah Just had the honor of scoring the brace with his two goals against the Iranians.
The Oceania side now awaits its first win in a World Cup match, having another chance against Egypt. They look to make improvements on the defensive side of the ball, needing to limit the Egyptians’ shot opportunities throughout the course of the game.
Likely Lineup:
(4-2-3-1) Crocombe (GK); Payne, Surman, Boxall, Cacace; Bell, Stamenic; McCowatt, Singh, Just; Wood
Egypt Stats & Team News
Egypt exceeded expectations with how they fierce competed against Belgium throughout the group opener, escaping with a 1-1 draw. Emam Ashour boasted the privilege of netting the country’s first goal since Mohamed Salah’s two goals in the 2018 World Cup.
The Egyptians now seek a pivotal victory to clinch a top three finish in the Group G standings. Not having to worry about the Belgians’ attack, Egypt looks to refine their strengths on the defensive side of the ball and disrupt any possibility of New Zealand creating shots throughout the match.
Likely Lineup:
(4-2-3-1) Shobeir (GK) Hany, Ibrahim, Fathi, El Fotouh; Lasheen, Ateya; Salah, Ashour, Ziko; Marmoush
Head-to-Head Stats
- This is the third all-time meeting between New Zealand and Egypt.
- This marks the second competitive meeting between the nations, first since the 2012 Olympics.
New Zealand vs. Egypt World Cup Picks
Both teams showcase solid balance in all areas, having done well to earn points in their respective opening matches. There will come a point when one side has to come out on top to secure their ticket to the knockout stage, the opening that Egypt hopes to accomplish throughout their clash with New Zealand. It would be safe to believe that Egypt takes this one by a 2-1 score.
