Ipswich Town defender Tommy Smith set up Chris Wood to score New Zealand’s goal, but the Oly-Whites were denied victory by Egypt in their Group C game at Old Trafford yesterday.
Smith flicked on Michael McGlinchey’s corner for Wood to tuck home at the back post, however Mohamed Salah equalised from close-range at the end of the first half.
The Africans could have had at least seven goals by the final whistle but a mixture of last-ditch Kiwi defending, and some awful finishing from Egypt, meant they had to settle for a draw in what was a poor-quality contest.
Should Brazil beat Belarus in Manchester this afternoon, Egypt will have to beat the Europeans on Wednesday to qualify for the quarter-finals, while minnows New Zealand will have to beat the South American side to progress from Group C.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here