World Cup 2026: Bazeley Explains New Zealand’s Defeat to Egypt

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New Zealand head coach Barren Bazeley has explained the reasons behind his side’s 3-1 defeat to Egypt in Monday’s World Cup encounter.

Speaking during his post-match press conference, Bazeley said Egypt increased the intensity of the game after the break, while his team struggled to maintain the level of performance they displayed in the opening half.

Goals from Mostafa Ziko, Mohamed Salah and Trezeguet secured victory for the Pharaohs over New Zealand.

The defeat leaves New Zealand at the bottom of Group G with just 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.”

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