World Cup 2026: Why New Zealand lost to Egypt – Coach Barren Bazeley

New Zealand coach Barren Bazeley has explained why his side fell 3‑1 to Egypt in Monday’s World Cup match.

In his post‑match interview, Bazeley said that Egypt increased the tempo in the second half and New Zealand could not match the performance they had delivered earlier in the game.

The Pharaohs secured victory with goals from Mostafa Ziko, Mohamed Salah and Trezeguet.

The result places New Zealand at the bottom of Group G, having earned one point from two matches.

“It’s disappointing. We were so good in the first half. We dominated possession and created a lot of chances,” Bazeley said.

“We came out in the second half, and I thought we were okay but we didn’t quite get to the pace of the game. Egypt upped the tempo and we couldn’t replicate what we were doing so well in the first half. Ultimately, that hurt us. We’re still one game away from making history. We know we have to beat Belgium now.”